Paul Etters Moore, Sr.

“KoKo”

Paul Etters Moore, Sr., lovingly known to all as “KoKo,” departed this life on November 25, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rich in courage, joy, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Born on April 20, 1941, in Greenwood, South Carolina, Paul was the cherished son of the late Mattie Lee and James Moore. After the passing of his father, Paul was blessed with the steady love and guidance of his stepfather, Bishop Wardlaw, Jr., who, alongside Mattie, helped shape the man he would later become.

A proud graduate of BOK Technical High School, Paul shined as a gifted athlete on the track team, earning numerous awards and scholarships for his extraordinary talent and discipline. His early achievements laid the foundation for a life marked by strength, resilience, and purpose.

Paul served his country with distinction in both the United States Air Force and the United States Army, dedicating many years to a remarkable military career that spanned the Vietnam, Korean, and Gulf Wars. He often spoke with excitement about his service as a paratrooper—recounting the thrill of leaping from aircraft with a sense of freedom and fearlessness that reflected the very essence of his spirit. He served honorably until his retirement from the Army Reserves with the rank of E6.

Following his military service, Paul applied his engineering skills in the civilian world, working many years with Western Electric and AT&T. He retired after over 30 years of service. Paul also gave back to his community by volunteering with the ‘Big Brother’s Club’ of Bristol Township, where he was affectionately known as “Mr. Paul.” He was an honored and active member of the Philadelphia American Legion – Col. Charles Young Post #682, where he proudly served as their ‘Sergeant-at-Arms’.

Beyond his community service and professional career, Paul embraced life with an open heart and boundless enthusiasm. He had a deep love for R&B oldies and was one of the founding members of a 1950s R&B group that later became internationally known as ‘The Intruders’. Always a free spirit, he never shied away from adventure. Paul was a true thrill-seeker—his passion for fast cars, motorcycles, and living boldly became part of the joyful legacy he leaves behind. He was a respected member of both the ‘Thunder Guards’ and ‘The Scorpions’ motorcycle clubs, spending many years riding his Suzuki and sharing his love of the open road with his brothers and sisters.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Mattie Lee and James Moore; his stepfather, Bishop Wardlaw; his brother, Leroy Wardlaw; and two infant daughters, Judy and Diana.

He leaves to honor his memory and continue his legacy, five children: Gloria “Bunny” Moore-McDonald (Reginald), Dorrie Moore-Webb, Paullita Moore-Hall (Vince), Conchetta P. Williams (Jay), and Paul Moore, Jr.; eight beloved grandchildren: Jay Jr., Janéa, Sequoia, Vincent Jr., Sakinah, Paul III, Trent, and Kane; and four great-grandchildren: Jayden and Jayla (Vincent Jr.), Jayce (Sakinah), and Nasir (Jay Jr.). He is also survived by his brother, Donald Wardlaw (Sharon), along with a loving host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and cherished friends.

Paul “KoKo” Moore, Sr. will be remembered for his infectious energy, his fierce loyalty to his family, his honorable service to his country, his extraordinary zest for life and the respect he commanded when entering a room. His spirit lives on in every story told, every laugh shared, and every life he touched.

May his memory be a blessing to all who loved him. Paul (Dad) will be dearly missed.

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