Obituary for Coach Lillian “Mama” Hall Moore

1950–2025

Lillian Hall Moore, known lovingly by generations of students and athletes as “Mama Moore,” passed away peacefully at the age of 75. A lifelong educator, coach, and mentor, she left behind a legacy of excellence, dedication, and love that forever shaped the hearts of those she guided.

Born in Fort Eustis, Virginia, Lillian was the daughter of the late James and Helga Hall. She grew up in a large, close-knit family with nine siblings who shared her sense of humor, strong work ethic, and love for community. She was preceded in death by her father James Hall; mother, Helga Hall; brother James W. Hall, Jr.; father-in-law Clarence L. Moore; and mother-in-law Betty Sue Moore.

Lillian is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years, Gary C. Moore, who was her steadfast partner in life and biggest supporter in every season. She is also survived by her brothers Bobby Hall, Terry Hall, and David Hall (and his partner Holly Crase); her brother Daniel Hall; and her sisters Dorothy Atkins (John), Phyllis Burcham (Andy), Linda Hagee, and Valerie Hall. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Kathy Abel Hall, and members of her extended Moore family: Patsy Moore Thomas, David G. Moore, and Jeffrey D. Moore, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, colleagues, and dear friends who loved her deeply.

Though Lillian never had biological children, her heart and home were always open. To thousands of students at George Wythe High School in Wytheville, Virginia, she was more than a teacher or coach—she was “Mama Moore,” a guiding force who believed in hard work, discipline, and the power of encouragement. Her athletes knew that while she demanded their best effort, she also loved them fiercely, celebrating every victory—on and off the court. She treated each student/athlete with love and respect whether they came in first or last, fit in with the crowd or not. She shone a light for us to look to being a good person, strong marriage and dream achieving.

A member of the Virginia High School League Coaches Hall of Fame, Coach Moore’s career was one of remarkable success and unwavering commitment to excellence.

• Volleyball: 12 District Championships, 8 Regional Championships, 2 State Runners-Up, and 4 State Championships.

• Girls Track: 5 District Championships, 3 Regional Championships, 1 State Runner-Up, and 2 State Championships.

Her coaching record was impressive, but what truly defined her was her ability to inspire. She believed every young woman deserved the chance to grow in confidence, strength, and purpose. Under her leadership, athletes didn’t just learn to compete—they learned to persevere, to respect one another, and to hold themselves to the highest standards.

Coach Moore’s influence continues to ripple through generations of former players and students who still carry her lessons into their own lives, classrooms, and families. Her laughter, her fierce determination, and her trademark encouragement— “Work hard, girls, you can do this!”—will forever echo in the halls of George Wythe and beyond.

Lillian “Mama” Moore’s whistle may have blown for the final time, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone she coached, taught, and loved. Her life’s work was not only about winning games, it was about building character, community, and courage.

A celebration of her life will be held at Grubb Funeral Home on Saturday, November 15th, viewing from 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm with Memorial Service at 2:00 pm. Burial to follow at West End Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Lost Fantasy Animal Resuce in her memory (www.lostfantasystables.org) A special thanks to Wythe Hospice for care and kindness at the end. Friends and family are invited to gather at the Wythe Golf Club between 4:00 – 6:00pm to share time and memories. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.grubbfuneralhome.com Grubb Funeral Home in Wytheville is in Charge of the arrangements.