John Edward Moore, Sr.

John Edward Moore, Sr., affectionately known as “Big Ted,” entered into the presence of his Savior on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the age of 91.

John leaves behind a legacy of steadfast faith, integrity, and devotion to his family. He was known for his kind and compassionate heart, his willingness to help both friends and strangers, his joyful spirit, and his deep love for the Lord.

Born on February 12, 1935, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, John was the son of the late Edward W. and Mildred (Wilkenson) Moore. He was the beloved husband of Rosalie K. (Schall) Moore. John was preceded in death by his first wife of 65 years, Phyllis E. (May) Moore.

A faithful member of Salem Bible Church for many years, John served the Lord and his church with dedication and humility. Throughout his life, he sought to reflect the love of Christ in both word and deed. He graduated from Milton Hershey School in 1953, the Brownstown Vo-tech School, and the Evening Institute of Lancaster Bible College in 1980. His employment over the years included jobs as an auto/truck mechanic, service manager for ElMor Chevrolet, sales/service manager for Show Ease Stall Company, and the ownership and operation of Moore Bears. John was widely known for his love of teddy bears, and through Moore Bears, he delivered bears to hundreds of individuals, bringing comfort, encouragement, and smiles to those in need. John also served as a member of the Corporate Board of Lancaster Bible College. In 2001, he received the “Distinguished Record of Community Service” award from the Milton Hershey School Alumni Association.

John is survived by his loving wife, Rosalie; his children, Lynn Leaman (Ronald) of Manheim, PA, Deborah LaPoint (William) of Chattanooga, TN, and John Moore, Jr., (Laurie Kauffman) of Lancaster, PA; his stepchildren, William Schall (Diane) of Willow Street, PA, Andrew Schall (Deanna) of Lancaster, PA, and Diane Porter (Robert) of Lancaster, PA; 10 grandchildren; 6 step-grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and 2 step-great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his daughter, Tracy E. Palmer; his stepdaughter, Brenda K. Schall; and his sister, Joyce Ann Rogers.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Millersville Bible Church, 1940 New Danville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17603.

A celebration of John’s life and faith will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Salem Bible Church, 575 Voganville Road, New Holland, PA 17557. Friends may also call from 10:00 to 11:00 AM prior to the service. Private interment will follow at the Voganville Union Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Lancaster County and the many friends whose care, prayers, support and kindness meant so much to John and his loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Calvary Homes Benevolent Fund, 502 Elizabeth Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601, in memory of John. To send an online condolence to the family visit, www.GroffEckenroth.com. Arrangements by the Groff High Funeral Home, New Holland, PA

“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8