Willis "Willie" McFarland Moore

Willis “Willie” McFarland Moore, 94, of Fairview, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, October 4, 2025, surrounded by his family at home.

Willie was born on October 30, 1930, in Fairview, to the late Samuel Arthur and Victoria Lee Moore. His mother passed away when he was three months old, and he was lovingly raised by his great-aunt, the late Leila Moore Williams, whom he affectionately called “Mamma.” He was also preceded in death by nine brothers, two sisters, and one foster sister, Elizabeth Fite.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 47 years, Mary Ester Lytle Moore; daughter, Debbie Anderson and husband Rick; grandson, Kyle Anderson and wife Lauren; granddaughter, Vanessa Hester and husband Dean; three great-grandchildren, Andy Hester, Anagail Hester, and Will Anderson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Willie learned the value of hard work early in life, and his strong work ethic remained evident throughout his years. After graduating from Fairview School in 1950, he served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1953 as a career guidance counselor. In 1955, he played a key role in founding the Fairview Volunteer Fire Department. While also working full-time, he earned a degree in engineering in 1959 and went on to enjoy a successful career as an industrial engineer and plant manager. Even in retirement, Willie continued working at several hobbies including woodworking, gardening, and plant propagation.

Willie loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and he lived a life wholeheartedly dedicated to God and family. He was a faithful member, attendee, and contributor to his church throughout his life. He was a steady provider, protector, and encourager to his wife. He loved his family deeply. Willie lived generously, always warmly welcoming friends, family and strangers into his heart and home, always ready to give of his time and resources. His life was a daily expression of unwavering faith, solid commitment, heartfelt worship, and steadfast love.

Willie had a deep love for Southern Gospel music and a singing voice as big as his heart. In his early adult life, he traveled, sang, and recorded Southern Gospel music with a trio, The Rhythm Airs. Later, he found joy singing in the church choir and attending the National Quartet Convention and various Hymn Sings. Music was one of the many ways Willie expressed his love for Jesus. In return, music brought him great joy and encouragement.

His family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 8, beginning at 12:45 p.m. at the Biltmore Church of God, 1390 Sweeten Creek Rd., Asheville, NC 28803. A celebration of life service will follow at 2:00 p.m. The Revs. Tommy Wilkes, Lawrence Ownbey, Chester Owenby, and Richard Baird will officiate. The burial, with U.S. Air Force honors, will then take place at Nesbitt’s Chapel Church Cemetery, 12 Nesbitt’s Chapel Rd., Fairview, NC.

The family invites you to honor Willie’s memory by sending flowers or purchasing Bibles in his name through The Gideons International at sendtheword.org.

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.