In Memory: James W. Moore, S.J. (1927-2019)

Saint Joseph's University is mourning the passing of James W. Moore, S.J., a beloved member of the Jesuit community for more than 50 years.

Born in 1927, Fr. Moore entered the Jesuit Novitiate in 1946 after serving for several years in the U.S. Navy. He was ordained a priest in 1959 and joined the Saint Joseph’s community in 1963 as director of undergraduate admission for what was then Saint Joseph's College. In that role, he was a vocal proponent for a number of changes that are now a regular part of life on campus, including the construction of LaFarge Residence Center, seven-day cafeteria service and the introduction of a casual dress code to replace the then-required suit and tie.

In 1978, Fr. Moore became director of the freshman program, and in 1981, he took on the role of associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences where, for nearly three decades, his patience and approachable nature made him a favored counselor and advisor to thousands of students in both academic and personal matters. Fr. Moore was an active supporter of alumni groups, serving as an early moderator of the Law Alumni Chapter and attending many chapter events and broader alumni gatherings, including reunions and socials. He was also deeply engaged with the campus community, attending faculty and staff gatherings and the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit, and kept close connections with his fellow Jesuits. In 1990 at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Fr. Moore delivered the homily at the funeral of his friend Michael J. Smith, S.J., the longtime University academic and trustee for whom the Chapel of St. Joseph on campus is dedicated.

Fr. Moore was presented with the Rev. Joseph S. Hogan, S.J., award in 2002 in recognition of his "exemplification of Christian principles and outstanding loyal service to Saint Joseph's University." Upon his retirement in 2008, the University named Moore Hall, formerly Overbook Hall, in his honor.

Fr. Moore remained active in his retirement, serving Mass on campus and at St. Matthias Parish in Bala Cynwyd. He joyfully prayed for the Church and the Society of Jesus, an important final mission for Jesuits. He also continued to give spiritual guidance to friends and young men entering the priesthood.

"Father Moore was one of the most beloved and indelible figures at St. Joe's in recent history," said President Mark C. Reed, Ed.D. "Practically any alumnus from the 1960s to 1990s remembers him fondly, as an influential and faithful leader and as a personal mentor and advisor. He was a progressive and visionary who helped to shape our academic distinction, campus footprint and student culture. He will be dearly missed."

A campus remembrance will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 18., in the Chapel of St. Joseph, with a vigil prayer service beginning at 7 p.m., immediately followed by a viewing until 8:30 p.m. Additional services will be held on Thursday, Sept. 19, at St. Matthias Church in Bala Cynwyd. with a viewing at 9:15 a.m. and Mass at 10:30 a.m.

Donations in Fr. Moore's memory can be made to The Jesuit Community at Manresa Hall or to Saint Joseph’s University for the James Moore, S.J., Scholarship, which provides support to minority students enrolled in pre-medical studies.

Jesuit Community Donations
Jesuits at Manresa Hall
261 City Avenue
Merion Station, PA 19066

Scholarship Donations
Saint Joseph's University
C/O Office of Advancement
5600 City Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19131