James Stanley Moore Sr. was heading to work at SRG Global Wednesday morning, just like the quality control engineer had for almost 40 years, when another vehicle crossed into his lane, ending the 59-year-old’s life.

The sudden death of Moore has sent shockwaves through the community, but none feel the loss more than his children Christy and Stanley Jr.

Born at the old hospital in Porterdale in 1959, Moore grew up swimming in the pool in the mill town, and bought a 1970 Barracuda from Walker Harris when the dealership was still on Washington Street.

Like most born in Porterdale, he had a fondness for the small town, and was anticipating the rebuilding of the gymnasium.

A local music legend, according to his kids, Moore first started playing music when he was 6, “banging on paint cans.”
He made his first record at the age of 14 with his friend Billy Wilson, and frequently played around town.

Along with the music, he ran in marathons and half-marathons, completing the legendary Peachtree Road Race on multiple occasions, liked hunting and fishing, woodworking, and spoiling this three grandchildren Stanton Harrison, 7; Rylan Moore, 7, and Weston Moore, 3.

Stanton has inherited her grandfather’s musical talent and plays the guitar, Rylan and Weston played baseball with their grandfather.

“There’s so much to say about him, but how do you say it,” said Christy. “[I’ll remember] his strength and his comfort. And listening to him play ‘Wipe Out’ on the drums,” she said, a small smile playing on her lips.

“[He was] perfect,” said Stanley Jr. “He was just the ideal father to me; someone who I am proud of. He supported anything I’ve ever done and was right by my side…

“Anybody who knows him well knows what kind of person he is. And that sums it up.”

A memorial service will be held for Moore Sunday at 3 p.m. at the chapel of the Caldwell and Cowan Funeral home.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday.

According to Georgia State Police, drugs and alcohol were not a factor in the accident.

The at-fault driver was airlifted to Atlanta Medical Center where he remains.