Obituary

James William Moore, 80, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in Johnstown, PA on April 30, 2026. He was born on February 7, 1946, in Monett, Missouri, the son of John and Emma Lou Moore.

James attended Yale University, graduating in 1968 with a degree in English Literature and Drama. Throughout his high school and college years, James was active on the track and field team as a hurdler. Later, he loved to regale family and friends with tales of his running triumphs, especially the story of his diving finish at the 1968 Penn Relays to help his hurdle relay team secure a victory for Yale.

Summers spent on his grandfather’s farm in Missouri sparked James’ desire to try his hand at farming, gardening, and carpentry. So in the true spirit of the 1970s “back to the land” movement, he successfully constructed two houses, two barns, and assorted outbuildings while he and Marilyn tended to a menagerie of farm animals including sheep, chickens, pigs, horses, cats, and dogs.

In the 1990s, James returned to his academic roots and began a teaching career at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. Channeling his scholarly background and carpentry experience, he served as a professor of theatre history, stagecraft, and scene design where his creativity and craftsmanship inspired dozens of beautiful and elaborate set designs.

In his retired years, James nurtured a bountiful garden, growing and sharing seedlings, plants, and fresh produce with friends and family. He could often be found walking Pickle the dog, cheering on his grandchildren at their soccer games, and spending time with “his” Pattie, with whom he shared and enjoyed many years. An avid and dedicated writer in retirement, James was a proud member of the Flash Gordons writing group, who meant a great deal to him. The group plans to honor James’ memory by seeing his novel-in-progress, Changing Variables, through publication.

James is survived by his partner, Patricia (Pattie) Poole; the mother of their children, Marilyn; children, Molly and Forrest; daughter-in-law, Allie; grandchildren, Connor and Mason; brother, John Moore; sister, Melissa Snydacker; many dear friends, including Nancy Smeltzer, Dylan and Sarah Fornoff, Michael Feight, and Chuck, Donna, Gladys, and Sue Clifton; Pickle the dog, and Ajax, Blossom, and Henny the cats.

Memorial contributions can be made to Paws Across Pittsburgh, the animal rescue where he and Pattie adopted Pickle:

Paypal: donate@pawsacrosspittsburgh.com

Venmo: @PawsPGH

Check: Paws Across Pittsburgh, 413 E. 6th Ave, Tarentum, PA 15084. Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., “Exclusive Provider of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHomes.com.