of Marianna, AR

January 3, 1940 - September 28, 2023

Charles Everett Moore Sr. passed away on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at Regional One Medical Center in Memphis. He was born to the late Owen O'Shields Moore and Erlene Webb Moore on January 3, 1940 in Marianna.

Charles graduated from T.A. Futrall in Marianna in 1957. He was known for his prowess on the football field and the basketball court and also ran track and field for the Marianna Porcupines. He played in the 1957 Arkansas All-Stars Game in Football. He was elected Mr. Marianna High School during his senior year.

As graduation approached, Charles was recruited by several Division I football programs, including Georgia and Louisiana State University. He chose to attend the University of Arkansas and began his college football career. He played four years under renowned head coach Frank Broyles as one of "Broyles Bunch."

During his time as a Razorback, Charles was part of the three Razorback teams that either won or tied for Southwest Conference championship, playing in the 1960 Gator Bowl (against Georgia Tech), the 25th anniversary Cotton Bowl (against Duke) in 1961 and the 1962 Sugar Bowl (against Alabama, led by legendary coach and Arkansas native, Paul "Bear" Bryant). His prowess on the football field garnered him letterman status two of those years. Off the field, Charles pursued a degree in physical education and mathematics and graduated in 1962.

Following graduation from the U of A, Charles entered the National Football League as a free agent and was chosen by the Washington Redskins in 1962. While living in D.C., he joined the National Guard. His unit was called to serve as security for Rev. Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech on August 28, 1963. Charles was stationed in the basement of the White House, prepared to defend the Capitol if unrest ensued.

Charles returned to Marianna in the fall of 1963 and began working at Douglas and Lomason. Months later, two events transpired that would alter Charles' life. He began a 40 plus year career in education, starting at the Marianna School District as coach and math/science teacher at T.A. Futrall. Then he met Sue Mross at the local hangout, the Porcupine Den. They married on August 14, 1964, expanding their family to include daughter, Carol Ann and son, Charles Jr.

Education would become Charles' life's work. From early days as the football coach to eventually serving as superintendent in Marianna, Cherry Valley and Jessieville, education was always a part of his life. Nearly 60 years later, he was still known to many as Coach Moore.

After 32 years of working in nearly all aspects of education, Charles retired in 1998 and he and Sue returned to Marianna. Retirement for them meant working in the yard, spending time with granddaughters, Camryn and Caroline and being involved in the First Baptist Church of Marianna.

Charles joined the First Baptist Church of Marianna when he was 17 years old. Charles was known for his height (standing 6'5") and he had to kneel in the baptistry so the preacher, who was not nearly as tall, could baptize him. Over the years, he and Sue were Sunday School teachers. He was on the board of Deacons for over four decades. In the 1960s he was elected as chairman of the board of Deacons and was, at that point, the youngest person to serve in that position. His dedication to his church was illustrious and he was a faithful member for 65 years.

Charles lost his beloved Sue after 58 years of marriage in February 2023. He is survived by his daughter, Carol Ann Hart; son, Charles "Chuck" Moore Jr.; granddaughters, Camryn and Caroline Hart and his beloved companion, Chewie, all of Marianna; sister-in-law, Ann Scott of Little Rock; brother-in-law, George Moye of Norfork; nieces and nephews and a host of loved ones and friends throughout the community and state.

A memorial service for Charles Everett Moore Sr. will be held Monday, October 16th at First Baptist Church in Marianna. The service will began at 2 p.m. with visitation starting at 1 p.m. Rev. Stephen Price will officiate.

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