In Loving Memory of Jimmy-Lee Moore November 10, 1954 – October 26, 2026 It is with hearts full of love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Jimmy-Lee Moore, affectionately known as Jim, who departed this life on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on November 10, 1954, in Baltimore, Maryland, he was the son of the late Dora Council and the late Leroy Moore, Sr. Jim leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 49 years, Joyce Morris Moore; sons, N’Koy Moore (Natalie) of Hamden, Connecticut, and Zena Moore (Mary Judith) of Sherman, Texas; and eight cherished grandchildren: Omnri, Saron, Cameron, Shawn, Evan, Ileana, Ian, and Monica, who brought him great joy. He is also survived by his brothers, Leroy Moore, Jr. of Hamden, Connecticut, and James Butler (Janice) of Hartford, Connecticut; sisters, Lynnette Moore Booker (Timothy) of New Haven, Connecticut, and Jeannine Butler of Raleigh, North Carolina; and his brother-in-law, Edward Morris of Hamden, Connecticut. He leaves behind his two special nieces, Lewanna Moore and Lori Booker. He will also be remembered by his nephews, Jonathan, Michael-Lee, and Timothy, Jr.; nieces, Laquisha, Kathy, and Loretta; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends, colleagues, former students, and all those whose lives he touched. Early Life and Education Jim spent part of his childhood in Tucson, Arizona, where his father served in the military. At 9 years old, he returned with his family to New Haven, Connecticut, where he continued his education and graduated from James Hillhouse High School. Even as a young man, Jim demonstrated a passion for teaching and helping others. Among his early work experiences, he was especially proud of his involvement with the Yale Upward Bound Program, which supported students in pursuing educational opportunities. After graduating from Hillhouse, Jim attended Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. He later received a Master of Science degree in Special Education from Southern Connecticut State University, further preparing himself for a career devoted to student achievement. A Distinguished Career in Education Jimmy-Lee dedicated 35 years to the New Haven Public Schools, establishing himself as a consummate educator and a tireless advocate for students and their families. He believed every child deserved encouragement, opportunity, and the support necessary to succeed. Understanding that education required a strong partnership between schools and families, Jim worked with fellow teachers and parents to develop the Black Parents Teacher Organization. The initiative helped parents better understand and access resources available through the school district. His commitment extended to the teachers’ union and district teacher training, where he shared effective teaching strategies and mentored new educators. He encouraged his colleagues to create positive, productive learning environments in which students could thrive. Jim’s dedication was recognized through numerous awards and honors. Among his proudest achievements was his participation in the 1988 Fulbright-Hays Study Abroad Program for Teachers, an opportunity that reflected his commitment to professional development and educational excellence. Community Involvement and Broadcasting Beyond the classroom, Jim was actively involved in the community and enjoyed connecting with people through radio broadcasting. He served as a host on The Salubrity Show and was one of three hosts of The Electric Drum radio show. Through education, community service, and broadcasting, Jim shared his knowledge, encouraged dialogue, and brought people together. His diverse interests reflected his commitment to learning, service, and the community he loved. A Lasting Legacy Family was central to Jim’s life. He treasured his wife, sons, and grandchildren, finding great happiness in their companionship and accomplishments. His guidance, humor, and steady encouragement helped shape the lives of those closest to him. Jimmy-Lee will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to education, his advocacy for families, and his belief in the potential of every student. Through decades of teaching and community involvement, he made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals. Though he is no longer with us, the lessons he taught, the opportunities he helped create, and the relationships he nurtured remain part of his enduring legacy. His life exemplified the power of education, the strength of family, and the importance of serving others with purpose and compassion. Those Who Preceded Him in Death Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Dora Council and Leroy Moore, Sr.; aunts, Pauline Clark of New Haven, Connecticut, Audrey Knox (Robert) of Hamden, Connecticut, and Elenora Blizzard of New Haven, Connecticut; and his uncles, Calvin Council of Baltimore, Maryland, Edward Council of Red Bank, New Jersey, and Ernest Council and Leonard Council, both of New Haven, Connecticut. Rest in peace, Jimmy-Lee. Your dedication, kindness, and love will live on in your family, your former students, your colleagues, and the community you served so faithfully. Your work here is complete, but your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. A memorial service for Mr. Moore will take place Thursday, November 5, 2026 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at Howard K. Hill Funeral Services, 1287 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06511.  To leave a message of The post Jimmy-Lee Moore, 71 appeared first on New Haven Independent. ...read more read less