Share
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
Mr. Ashby “Little Joe” Moon, age 66, of Fayetteville passed away January 23, 2020.
Mr. Moon was born in Columbus on February 25, 1953 to the late James William Moon and Olga Massey. He was raised alongside his brother and two sisters on their parents’ farm in Waverly Hall. Mr. Moon was born with Dwarfism but his parents prepared him for life by treating him the same as his other siblings. Their tough love and nourishment led Mr. Moon to be the courageous and determined man so many people cherished. As a child he was the first person to receive spinal fusion surgery in Columbus. Despite his challenges, Mr. Moon considered himself “handy-able” and never let his condition hold him back from living life to the fullest.
Mr. Moon graduated from Harris County High School and then left the family farm to pursue higher education. Mr. Moon attended Georgia Southwestern College where he earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Math in 1977 and a Master’s Degree in Math Science in 1979. Mr. Moon joined the Kappa Sigma Fraternity and was a member of the Kappa-Kappa Chapter. Even before graduation, Mr. Moon began teaching math in 1976 in Taylor County. He also taught at Pointe South High School from 1978 to 2000, where he was the Math Teacher Department Head. Furthermore, Mr. Moon taught as Math Teacher Department Head at Lovejoy Middle School beginning in 2000 until his eventual retirement in 2005. During Mr. Moon’s long career he earned several accolades and prestigious titles including Beta Club Advanced Math Department Head, Red Cross Blood Advanced Teacher of the Year 1990, Who’s Who America’s Teacher Award, which he won 9 times between 1992 and 2004. He was honored by Speak Up For Young Americans in the early 1970’s. He was also featured in The Marquis Who’s Who Publications Boards and Who’s Who in America 2019 – 2020. In the 1990’s, Mr. Moon was involved in developing the mathematics curriculum for students in the state of Georgia. He had a successful 28 year career teaching Advanced Mathematics and Algebra and making an impact in countless students’ lives.
Mr. Moon was well-known and well-loved throughout the community. He has lived in Fayetteville since 1997. Mr. Moon loved gardening and particularly enjoyed his violets and birds of paradise flowers. He took every opportunity to travel. He visited Mexico, Jamaica, Hawaii and states all along the East coast. His favorite symbol was the claddagh because it represents love, loyalty and friendship. He was an amazing teacher, mentor and friend. He adored his students and could relate to them so well. He had a way of making each person feel special, warm and secure. He was engaging and gave his full attention and care to everyone he came in contact with. He was helpful and dependable. Most of all, Mr. Moon was larger than life. He was a rare individual who shaped many lives. He was bright and had an unforgettable smile.
Mr. Moon was wed to his longtime love, Daniel, on November 23, 2018. The couple spent 19 wonderful years together. Daniel will always cherish Mr. Moon’s reassurances of “I got you” and “We’ll never be lost because we’re always together.”
Along with his parents, Mr. Moon was preceded in death by his brother: Jim Moon; brothers-in-law: Luther Durham and Loron Coxwell; nephew: Rob Durham, Sr.; great-nephew: Robert W. Durham, beloved pet dogs: Brandy, Lady Ashley and Mellow Moon. He is survived by his loving husband: Daniel Moon; his boys and their spouses: Chris and Amber Speed, Keith and Ronda McLaughlin; sisters: Dala Durham and Lyra Coxwell; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews; best friends: Greg Stillions and Rachel King; many friends and students.
A memorial service will be held in Mr. Moon’s honor at 2:00 PM on Sunday, February 2, 2020 at the Moon residence. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/joe-moon-loved-and-missed-by-many. The Moon family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 1086 Hwy 54 West, Fayetteville. Messages of condolence may be left at www.GeorgiaCremation.com.
Alicia Partch says
I am so sorry for the loss is this amazing man. He taught me in school and I remember him like it was just yesterday. He was loved by all and always had an encouarging positive word for anyone who needed one. He will truly be missed. Prayers for his husband, family and friends.
Caudelle & Wilson Eyecare LLC says
What a sweet man. We will miss “Little Joe” at our office.
Dr’s Caudelle & Wilson and staff
Lynn Baity-Baggett says
Its seems as we get older, we look back and there are memories, favorites, things that made an impact on your life in some way. Mr. Moon was one of those favorite memories for me. He was one of the few teachers throughout my school years that was a favorite. He has and always will be a fond memory for me. RIP Mr. Moon.
Paul Crisp says
He was not my teacher I mate him when I was in 9th grade trans to point south from Babb lot of the football players wanted to fight me becouse I played for Babb he talked to me And welcome me to point south than he came to a few of my games when I was at Jonesboro Sr high we became good friends he was a good guy
Kim Trotter Crews says
Such an amazing man and teacher! RIP Mr. Moon!!
Lyra Wylie says
We were childhood friends. My Mom loved his sister’s name and gave me the same. I remember Joe well. Lately Joe has been on my mind and in my dreams. Sad to hear he has left us all. Peace to the family.
Jamie Phillips Wilbanks says
Mr Moon taught me at Pointe South Jr High. He was an amazing teacher and I’ll remember him always.
Tanya Fordham moody says
He was always a nice man when I was at pointe south jr high!!! I always wondered how he was!!! Rip Mr. Moon
Amanda Tarver Turner says
So sad to hear this. He was my 8th grade math teacher at PSMS. He was a very kind soul.
Kurt Carlton Gopaul says
Rest in peace Little Giant. You taught me and my sister Donna, Algebra back at Point South Middle School in the early 1990s. Because of you, i was able to understand that A = B/C which is so important in running a life-support ventilator, which i now can operate as a licensed respiratory care professional in healthcare many years later, thanks to you! You always said “THE LEARNER WILL….” And i did and so did many of my fellow classmates. Thankyou and may the heavens welcome you with open arms and may you be reunited with loved ones who have passed! God bless! God Speed! Go rest and sleep! Amen.
Toni Davis Pruden says
So sad to hear the news of the passing of this remarkable man. I taught at PSMS 1992 -2000 and remember him fondly. He was great with the students and friendly to all of the other staff members. The world has a missing seat at the table without Joe Moon, but Heaven has gained a glorious ‘angle’.
Tiána Cook says
Condolences to Mr.Moon.A very dedicated educator who left a lasting impression on the minds and hearts of countless children and young adults.Rest well.
Austin Booker says
Rest peacefully Mr. Moon. One of the best teachers I’ve had in life. You will be missed.
Jimmie Spurlin says
Mr. Moon will be missed but we will always cherish the memories of him at PSJH. He was the best math teacher and friend. Because of people like him we were able to reach our dreams. Love ya Joe Moon.
Marquita Baldwin says
Rest in Heaven. Mr. Moon he was the greatest teacher and loved all. He was my teacher at PSJH. He will be missed. Love always
Haddock says
I was a student in Mr. Moon’s math classes in the early 80’s. He was by far my favorite teacher. He always had the class laughing. My sympathy and prayers to his spouse and family.
Milton Sutherlin says
AEKDB, Joe.
Tammy Newman says
I was so fortunate to teach with Joe at Lovejoy Middle School. He was a beloved teacher, a wonderful friend, a great man, and so much fun. I thought the world of him.
Jacinta Jackson says
Rest in peace sir Mr.Moon ❤point south in lovejoy memories
Vikki Howell says
I was so sad to hear of his passing! Joe Moon may have been small in stature, but he was big in personality! He was kindhearted and loved by all who knew him!! I was lucky enough to work with him at LMS! He will be missed!
Brynn Lass says
Mr Moon was my 8th grade math teacher at Pointe South Middle school a little over 20 years ago. I had the pleasure of meeting him at a troubled time in a youths life but Mr Moon made his classroom fun. Let’s face it Math wasn’t always everyone’s favorite but he had a way of making it. I always struggled with the subject but never when I was enrolled in his class. He was a kind and considerate man. May he Rest In Peace now
Kim Watson says
Greetings I am so hurt. MR Moon was my teacher. He encouraged me when I was at my lowest and being a new student in the school. I saw him 5 years ago at the doctor office I worked at. He remembered me and we hugged. He told me I saw greatness in you. We cried together. After talking we both was diagnosed with the same illness and we both said we are going to be okay. I am going to miss her. My condolences to the family love y’all. Taye Usher
Chelsea says
You will truly be missed Mr. Moon. I still remember you believed in me when I was in your 8th grade pre algebra class. You were a caring and supportive teacher and I thank you for that. Praying for your family and friends during this time.
Shelley Scarborough says
Mr. Moon you touched my whole family’s heart! We will always love you! You were very kind and molded the Forsyth children! Much love to you!
Tom Queen says
My grandparents Emmett and Lois Alford owned the acreage across from the old farm. It was the old truck stop and lake. I remember visiting with Little Joe a few times when I would visit. Prayers for the family during this time of loss.
Derrick Westry says
He was my favorite teacher at Pointe South! May he Rest In Heaven teaching Math to the Angels!
Brian Ward says
Like everyone has said Mr. Moon was a great man & an awesome teacher. He was a great influenced on myself & so many others. He was my favorite teacher & had a hand in making my 8th grade year the best! I will always remember our trip to GT homecoming game & introducing Werther’s! Sharing a Wether’s with you now sir. You will be miss
Jean Myers Ivis says
Joe was a wonderful person. We were friends in college. So many good times and adventures. Laughter!
I am sad.
Latara Jackson says
Wonderful Teacher, Rest In peace. #PointeSouthMiddle
Marsha Burrows says
I was so saddened to hear of the loss of my most favorite teacher Mr. Moon. He taught me algebra in the 1979-80 school year at Point South Jr High. After that math became my favorite subject and I went on to work in the accounting field for over 30 years. He was such an encouraging teacher. I remember him telling everyone they could become anything they set their mind to. He asked everyone in the class what we wanted to be when we grew up. I said I wanted to be a stewardess. I changed my mind over the years several times and ended up in the accounting field. I did work for Delta Airlines as an administrative assistant though. Your belief in all of your students made an impact on us. I am so thankful that you were my teacher. You will be missed.
Ann Moncrief says
I forget what year but when at the school in Taylor County,, Mr. Moon was loved by all. Mr. Moon was very likable and loved. The children would go outside for break with Mr. Moon. He would tell oone of the students, go to the room and bring my my butt. They alll wanted to help Mr. Moon.
Janice Kochevar says
I taught with Joe at Lovejoy Middle School. He was such a fun spirited man and always made me laugh. He made such an impact on so many lives. I will cherish the fond memories from those years. Love ya always Moon Pie!!!
Jake Raines says
Mr. Moon was a such a nice man and always gave me a good laugh every time I saw him. I’m honored to have met him.
– Nurse Jake