Invite friends and family to read the obituary and add memories.
We'll notify you when service details or new memories are added.
You're now following this obituary
We'll email you when there are updates.
Select your format and elements to print
John "Sonny"
Henry Moore
Jun 16, 1930 — Sep 19, 1950
John Henry Moore, Known affectionately as "Sonny", was born and raised in the mountain air of Coeburn, Virginia. A man of character and deep devotion, he found his greatest peace in the simple joys of life—finding quiet in the Virginia woods while hunting or fishing in local waters.
Sonny was a legendary practical jokester. His family still fondly recalls the time he "Marooned" his young nephew on top of a chicken house, hiding nearby to enjoy the mischief before finally coming to the rescue. He was a devoted brother who shared a special, deep bond with his four sisters, a connection that time and distance could never break.
Sonny follows a proud family tradition of patriotism. He served alongside his father, John E. Moore (US Army), his older brother Vernon (Retired US Army), and his younger brother, Sidney (US Air force). Together, four members of the same family proudly stood in defense of their nation.
Even while serving overseas in 1950, Sonny's heart remained firmly in Virginia. In letters home, he wrote longingly of his dream to hunt with his brother-in-law. His devotion to his family was captured forever when he commissioned a large portrait of his nieces to be painted while he was stationed abroad—a cherished family treasure that remains a bridge to uncle who loved them from afar.
On September 19, 1950, while serving with the 8th Calvary Regiment in Korea, Sonny gave his life for the country he served. After seventy-five years of being away, he returns home now—not just a soldier, but as a beloved brother and a hero whos sacrifice will never be forgotten.
"Returning at last to the Virginia soil he loved."
Sonny returns home to his family. In a final act of brotherhood, he will be laid to rest alongside his younger brother, Sidney Moore (USAF). Though their paths in service took them different branches and at different times, they are united once more in eternal rest. His family is as follows: mother, Iva Crowder Moore; father, John E. Moore; sisters, Margaret Moore Reece, (Otis) Coeburn, VA, Mary Louis Moore Boyd, (Marvin) Dearborn Hgts. MI, Kay Moore Hickman, (Bob) Detroit, MI, Carol Moore Hunter, (Terry),Riverview, MI; brothers, Vernon Moore, (Jean) Leesburg, FL, Sidney Moore, (June), Loda, IL, Oscar Moore, Coeburn, VA; nieces, Sue Reece Lawson (Bill), Judy Elaine Reece, Faye Reece Stallard, (Ronnie), Lori Boyd Ghea, (Tom), Cindy Boyd Lowney, (Bill), Vicky Hunter, Sarah Moore, Pam Moore; nephews, Glenn Allen Reece, (Debbie), Bill Reece, (Sandy), Mike Harmon, (Barbara), John L. Hickman, Terry Hunter, Scott Hunter, (Leslie), Tim Moore, (Billie), Scott Moore, Dennis Moore, Jeff Moore; Several Great and Great-Great Nieces and Nephews and a host of extended relatives.
Visitation will be held Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 12:00pm - 1:00pm, with services starting at 1:00pm Saturday, May 30, 2026, with Pastor Marty Puckett (USMC) officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Acres Cemetery in
Coeburn, VA.
The family would like to recognize those having part of the Honorary Services: Nina Lawson, Jeff Lawson, Dignified Transfer - Fort Campbell, KY CAC, Honor Guard Fort Lee, VA, Patriot Honor Guard Riders and Jeff Forester.
Online condolences may be sent at www.estesfuneralhomes.com .
Estes Funeral Home of Coeburn, VA is honored to serve the family of PVT John Henry Moore.
Saturday
Estes Funeral Home
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Saturday
Estes Funeral Home
Starts at 1:00 pm
Visits: 0
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors