Mose James III

Mose James III:
_{A Life of Purpose, Passion, and Legacy}

Mose James III, a beacon of dedication, love, and resilience, passed away on October 25, 2023. Born on December 6, 1942, in the tight-knit community of Denmark, SC, Mose's journey was one filled with purpose, passion, and deliberate actions that positively impacted many lives.Raised in a humble dwelling in Denmark, a town with a population of merely 2,500 during his youth, Mose's early years were shaped by the strong bonds of family. He was the cherished son of Mose James, Jr. and Helen Moody. Alongside his siblings, Marion Moody, Bettye Funderburke, and James Smalls, young Mose navigated the challenges of attending segregated schools and the complexities of a changing world.His sense of duty led him to serve in the Air Force, laying a foundation of discipline and service that would guide his later pursuits. A proud graduate of Voorhees College, where he served as President of his Senior Class, Mose earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Studies. He then built an illustrious career committed to community service. Mose spent the majority of his career with the United States Department of Agriculture in Food Nutrition, ensuring countless individuals across the south east benefited from essential nutrition and welfare programs.
On December 27, 1975, Mose married the love of his life, Gloria Dean Ward. Their union was blessed with two wonderful children, Kendra Cotton and Mose James IV, who further enriched their lives with grandchildren: Croix Anthony Cotton, Chase Amarie Cotton, Mose James V, and Jurnee Khalo James.Sporting a zest for life, Mose was a fast car driving, bourbon-sipping, Green Egg-grilling, pinstripe suit-strutting, fresh hat-tipping, and fancy shoe-flaunting aficionado. As much as he loved these pursuits, his role as the ultimate friend was among his most defining attributes. His life was woven with a tapestry of friendships, both old and new. Never one to let too much time pass, Mose would reach out — be it by phone, email, or just a surprise drop-in at a friend's house. Lunches, conversations, and countless shared moments spoke of his unwavering commitment to those he cherished. It was as if he knew everyone, and this vast circle of friends bore testimony to how deeply he was loved.Mose's dedication to staying informed was evident as he ensured a newspaper was delivered to his house multiple times a week, and he often settled into his sunroom to swipe through news articles on his iPad or tune into political debates. An active supporter of the Democrats, he was passionate about his beliefs and ever ready for a good debate.His commitment to the community was unparalleled. Recognitions spanning decades like "Outstanding Young Men of America" (1973) and "Personalities of the South" (1974) adorned his mantle. Mose's tireless efforts saw him serve as PTA president at multiple schools, read to children, and mentor young minds in schools, churches, and parks and recreation settings. He ardently backed the Southern Poverty Law Center and held esteemed positions in various community and spiritual organizations. As a member of Ben Hill United Methodist Church and later Cascade United Methodist Church, he served as an usher and took on other significant roles within these congregations.But as the golden years approached, Mose discovered a renewed purpose in the joyous giggles and innocent explorations of his grandchildren. With their advent, he dived heartfirst into grandparent duties — be it attending every school performance, patiently waiting in the school carline, or enjoying Chick-fil-A visits with his namesake. These young souls softened his heart, giving him a fresh outlook on an already vibrant life. They weren't just his grandchildren; they were his newfound best friends.Till the very end, a significant focus of Mose's life was ensuring the well-being and happiness of his beloved wife, Gloria. Their bond was a testament to the depths of love, as he constantly sought to nurture, protect, and cherish her, reflecting his unwavering commitment to ensuring she experienced a life filled with joy and love.Mose James III's life stands as a testament to a legacy built on resilience, dedication, and love. As we remember him, let his journey inspire us to live with purpose, cherish our loved ones, and commit to the betterment of our community.Mose's legacy continues through his beloved wife, Gloria W. James. He leaves behind his daughter, Kendra Cotton, married to Greg Cotton Jr., residing in Louisville, Kentucky, and his son, Mose James IV, united in matrimony with Shekita James, calling College Park, GA home. His four grandchildren, Croix Anthony Cotton, Chase Amarie Cotton, Mose James V, and Jurnee Khalo James, will forever be lit by the memories of their doting grandfather. Survived by his siblings Marion Moody of Manhattan, New York, Bettye Funderburke of Columbia, SC, and James Smalls of Savannah, GA, each holds a special place within the expansive tapestry of his life's journey. Additionally, he leaves his nephew, Brian Moody of Manhattan, New York. Mose leaves a host of dear PHMD relatives, a host of cherished friends from various walks of life mourn his passing, a testament to the deep and lasting relationships he fostered throughout his lifetime. Mose's indomitable spirit, zest for life, and the warmth of his love will remain as enduring memories in the hearts of all who knew him.

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