It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Byron Moore, a cherished resident of Jenison, Michigan. Byron passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, at the age of 67 after a prolonged battle with illness. His passing leaves an indelible mark on the community, as he was known for his kindness, generosity, and his unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and neighbors. As we reflect on his life, we celebrate the qualities that made him so special—his dedication to others, his sense of humor, and his enduring love for the people closest to him.
Byron was born on April 5, 1957, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he spent much of his childhood before settling in Jenison. From an early age, it was clear that Byron was a person of exceptional character. He was known for his calm demeanor, his willingness to lend a hand, and his natural ability to make others feel comfortable. He was a son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather whose heart was always open to those around him.
Byron attended West Ottawa High School, where he was an active member of the community and excelled in both academics and athletics. He made lifelong friendships during these years, which would remain strong throughout his life. After high school, he attended Grand Valley State University, where he earned a degree in business administration. It was there that he began to develop the skills that would shape his career and his life as a devoted husband and father.
Following his graduation, Byron worked for several years in the business world before deciding to pursue his passion for teaching. He joined the staff at Jenison High School, where he worked as a business education instructor for over 20 years. His impact on the students was immeasurable. Byron was much more than a teacher; he was a mentor, guiding many young people to success both inside and outside the classroom. His dedication to education extended beyond teaching business principles; he instilled in his students a sense of purpose, hard work, and the importance of integrity.
In addition to his work in education, Byron was deeply involved in the Jenison community. He volunteered his time with several local organizations, including the Jenison Lions Club and the Jenison Little League. His commitment to service was an integral part of who he was, and he never hesitated to step up when help was needed. Byron was particularly passionate about supporting local youth programs, believing that every child deserved the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background. His contributions to these organizations were not only invaluable but also reflected his belief in the power of community.
Family was everything to Byron. He married the love of his life, Carol, in 1982, and together, they built a beautiful family. Byron was a loving husband and a devoted father to their two children, David and Emily. His love for his family knew no bounds, and he worked tirelessly to provide for them and to ensure that they had every opportunity to flourish. He was proud of his children and took great joy in watching them grow into accomplished adults. His role as a grandfather brought him immeasurable happiness, and he doted on his grandchildren, always finding ways to spend quality time with them, whether it was playing games, telling stories, or sharing his love for the outdoors.
Byron had a wide range of interests that kept him busy outside of his professional and family life. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hiking, fishing, and spending time at the family cabin in northern Michigan. These moments in nature were deeply cherished, and he often took his children and grandchildren along for these adventures. Byron also had a passion for woodworking and was known for creating beautiful, handcrafted furniture and home decor. His attention to detail and craftsmanship were remarkable, and many of his pieces have become treasured heirlooms within his family.
One of the things that set Byron apart was his sense of humor. He had a unique ability to make people laugh, even in difficult situations. His wit and playful spirit were a constant source of joy for those who knew him. Whether he was telling a funny story, pulling a harmless prank, or simply sharing a lighthearted moment with family and friends, Byron’s infectious laughter filled every room. He had an uncanny ability to make people feel at ease, and his genuine care for others was evident in everything he did.
Byron was also a man of faith. He was a long-time member of the First Reformed Church in Jenison, where he was actively involved in various church activities and outreach programs. His faith was an important foundation of his life, and he lived by the values of love, compassion, and service. He was deeply committed to his church family and found strength in his beliefs, especially during times of hardship. Byron’s unwavering faith provided comfort and hope not only to him but also to those around him.
Byron’s passing leaves a void that will be felt by all who knew him. His family, friends, colleagues, and the Jenison community will remember him for his boundless generosity, his caring nature, and his commitment to making the world a better place. While his presence will be sorely missed, his legacy will continue to live on in the lives of those he touched.
Byron is survived by his beloved wife, Carol; his children, David and Emily; his grandchildren, Noah, Olivia, and Abigail; his siblings, Jeff and Laura; and many extended family members and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Margaret Moore.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many doctors, nurses, and caregivers who supported Byron during his illness. Their care and compassion made his final days more comfortable, and the family is eternally grateful for their support.
A celebration of Byron’s life will be held at First Reformed Church in Jenison on December 19, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. A visitation will take place on December 18, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the church. Friends, family, and community members are invited to join in remembering Byron and sharing stories of his life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Jenison Lions Club or the Jenison High School Scholarship Fund, organizations that were dear to Byron’s heart.
