Joseph Austin "Joe" Moody, Jr.

Joseph Austin "Joe" Moody, Jr., a cherished member of the Ottawa community, passed away on March 10, 2025, at his residence in Vassar, Kansas, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 27, 1949, in Ottawa, Kansas, the son of Joseph A. Moody, Sr. and Sylvia (Alcorn) Moody, Joe lived a life filled with dedication, love, and service to others.

A graduate of Ottawa High School, class of 1967, Joe furthered his education at Independence Community College and later attended Emporia State University. His professional career spanned over four decades, beginning in mobile home manufacturing working for Divco Wayne Trailer Manufacturing/Bendex for twenty-two years. He then devoted twenty-five years to the City of Ottawa, where he worked diligently as an arborist in the parks and recreation department and later as an assistant supervisor in the public works department, culminating in his retirement in 2012.

On January 1, 2000, Joe was united in marriage to Wanda Griffin in Ottawa, Kansas. Their union blossomed into a loving partnership, which Joe cherished throughout his life. He was a proud father and grandfather, leaving behind his beloved wife, Wanda Moody; daughter Janel Kaufman (Keith) of Paola, Kansas; son Chad Bloomer (Kari) of Ottawa, Kansas; daughter Stephanie Hays (Becci) of Baldwin City, Kansas; sisters Vicky Good and Susie Wallis (Russel) of Ottawa, Kansas; as well as six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Joe's interests were many, and he found joy in golfing, fishing, bowling, and hunting. He was also deeply involved in his community, having served as a baseball coach and worked as an umpire for twenty-five years, and he dedicated his time to girls' softball. He took great pride in being a member of the Aerie Lodge 2700 Fraternal Order of Eagles of Ottawa, which showcased his commitment to community and friendship.

Joe Moody was predeceased by his parents and his brother-in-law Marvin Good. His absence will be felt deeply among family and friends who admired his spirit and character.

Joseph Austin Moody, Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service to his family and community. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments and the impact he had on those around him but also for the warmth and kindness he shared with all. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

A celebration of life will be held 1-3:00pm, Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Fraternal Order of Eagles, 524 E. 15th Street, Ottawa, Kansas.

To share your memories of Joe or to send a special condolence message to his family, please visit the guestbook below.