Catherine Loretta Moore

Catherine Loretta Moore, 89, of Danville, Illinois, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on July 29, 2025, just days before celebrating her 90th birthday.

Catherine was born on August 1, 1935, in Bucklin, Missouri, to Rolly and Lillie Boone. She graduated from Marceline High School in Marceline, Missouri, and later earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Though she was working toward her Master’s degree, she selflessly paused her academic journey to care for her husband when he became ill.

On August 24, 1956, Catherine married Billy Joe Moore. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and family.

Catherine’s heart for teaching touched many young lives throughout her career as an educator. Alongside her dedication to the classroom, she also ran a successful upholstery business—a testament to her creativity, determination, and tireless work ethic. Balancing both careers with grace, she poured herself into every endeavor with skill and care.

In retirement, Catherine continued to serve others through volunteer work at the local hospital. She especially loved spending time with her fellow “Red Vest” volunteers and looked forward to their lunches together.

A woman of grace and quiet strength, Catherine lived a full life enriched by unique experiences. One of her most cherished adventures was participating in Danville Area Community College’s science trip, known as “The Desert Rats,” where she and her daughter Cheryl journeyed across the American Southwest. They hiked, studied geology, set up camp in the desert, cooked meals, and took daily quizzes—all in the spirit of learning and discovery. Catherine also loved traveling with her sister Evelyn, and the two shared many memorable trips together, creating lasting memories filled with laughter, sisterly connection, and adventure.

Catherine was a breast cancer survivor who faced her battle with quiet strength, courage, and unwavering faith—never letting the illness define her, but allowing her resilience to shine even brighter.

Catherine’s family was the joy of her life. She is survived by her children, Cheryl (Jeff) Pichon of Westville, Illinois, and Kenny (Tami) Moore of Danville, Illinois; grandchildren, Jessica Moore, Lauren (Matt) Carrell, Ciara Moore, Nicole Butler, and Kamon (Danielle) Elliott; and her beloved great-grandchildren: Owen, Morgan, Sean, Gage, Reece, Jase, Nolan, and Tinsley. She is also survived by her sister, Evelyn Evemeyer; her brother, Aaron (Peggy) Boone; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Joe Moore; her parents, Rolly and Lillie Boone; her sister, Margie Moore; and her brothers, Donald Boone and Max Boone.

Catherine was known for her deep love of church, her colorful flower gardens, and her cherished friendships. She never used foul language, had a keen eye for people-watching, and was famous for her delicious beef and noodles and deviled eggs. She was always ready to chat—welcoming every phone call from family and friends with warmth, laughter, and genuine interest in their lives. She delighted in seeing her loved ones off with a honk and a wave—always wanting them to feel remembered and loved.

Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, IL 61834 on Friday, August 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Park.

Please join Catherine’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com