Deacon Al Moore

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Allan Martin Moore was born on April 6, 1937, in Indianapolis Indiana to the parents of James and Marie Moore. He was the third of six children born in the family. He was raised surrounded by his Charles (who preceded him in death), Radford, Essie, James, (who preceded him in death) and Cora. He was educated in the Indiana Public school system and graduated from Crispus Attuck High school.

Al was always a lover of music and begin playing drums at the age of 16, when his mother purchased a set of drums to keep him out of trouble. It was said that “he had the third child middle syndrome” because he was very mischievous.  One time time, he played a prank on his mother by covering himself with ketchup and playing dead.  Once his mother figured out, he was okay, she made him wish that he was dead.  He never played another prank on his mother.

Al’s first union in marriage was to Edna Ward. Three children were born to this union, Cherie, Allan Jr., Rodrick. Taunya was the youngest daughter, who preceded him in death. Al had a dear friend, Kay Oats, whom he adopted as his own.

In 1967, he met the love of his life, Cynthia Covington, at his sister’s Cora’s home. When he walked in being the Al that he was; he was talking smack. They dated, fell in love and were united in marriage on January 17, 1970. Al and Cynthia were married for 52 years which Al, to this day would call Cynthia his “Bride.” Together they traveled all over the United States in their RV, visiting Estes Park as one of his favorite locations among others. He loved fishing, hunting, and golfing.

Al also loves to cook and help build home additions. Twenty-two cruises took them all over the world including Italy and Hawaii, which was the last trip together.  Cynthia was Al’s rock, and she was his rock, and she was his rock until he was called to God’s Heavenly Garden. There were no children born to this union.

Cherie recalls one of the highlights of her life with her dad was he spoiling her with electronics.  He loved gadgets they were his passion. He loved putting things together and tearing them apart. She delighted in seeing his face light up and he made sure that she had the latest and the greatest.

Al relocated to Denver in 1964 and gained an interest in the organ by listening to Jimmy Smith. He was a self-taught by listening to Jimmy Smith and he learned to play the Hammond B3 Organ’ thus was given the nickname “Al Hammond Moore” Al played every key up to its reputation.  He was well known around the Denver area, performing in the local jazz and supper clubs in the 60’s thru 80’s and in the Al Hammond Moore Trio. He was considered the best of West. Al often had jam sessions within his home with the likes of Philip Bailey, Larry Dunn, and Andrew Woolfolk, who later became the famous Earth Wind and Fire. The highlights of his jazz career were playing the organ in several casinos in Las Vegas, and the recording of a CD in Caesars Palace.

He was known for his keen sense of humor, personality, and his million-dollar smile that would light up the room. He was quite the debonair dresser, known for his signature bow tie and matching from head to toe. He never met a stranger, and with his impeccable, charming character, he was one that you could trust and depend on. In addition to his music career, he was employed for 21 years with the City and County of Denver. He was the first and only African American traffic Signal Inspector.

A man of faith and belief in the Lord, Al became a member of the Macedonia Baptist Church, and later became a Deacon under the stewardship of Reverend Dr. DeWayne Moore of the Ebenezer Baptist Church. Later, he joined St. Stephen Missionary Baptist, where he served as a faithful Deacon under the leadership of Reverend Randolph C. West Jr. He did so until his passing.

Deacon Allan Martin Moore, remembered by all as “Al Hammond Moore” passed away peacefully on March 25, 2022, in Denver, Colorado, holding the hand of his devoted wife and caretaker. Those left to cherish his memory and mourn his loss include his loving and devoted wife, Cynthia A.Moore; one brother, Radford Moore, both of Denver; two sisters, Essie Thomas (Leroy) of Indianapolis Indiana, Cora Golston of Denver, Colorado; his daughter, Cherie (Dwight) Harwell; two sons, Allan Moore Jr. (Becky) and Rodrick Moore, all from Indianapolis Indiana; one sister-in-law, Sheryl LaCour; nine grandchildren; twenty one great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives; and many  friends.