James "Jim" Martin Moore

ALBANY - James "Jim" Martin Moore, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024. Born on April 2, 1940, he was the son of the late James Martin Moore and Eleanor King Moore of Albany, New York.

Jim is survived by his son, James Martin Moore (Allison) of Seattle, WA; his daughter, Justine Moore Witt (Michael) of Vashon, WA; his granddaughter, Keelin Rory Witt of Vashon, WA; his brother, Richard Moore (Joy) of Saugerties, NY; his sisters, Mary Ellen Carpenter (Nelson) of Gansevoort, NY and Jean Anne Moore of Troy, NY; as well as several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1962, Jim moved to San Diego, California, to join the Space Race at General Dynamics. Jim quickly became an ardent San Diego Padres fan, however that love was challenged in the early 1980s when “the Padres gave away not one but two future Hall of Famers, Ozzie Smith to the Cards and Dave Winfield to the Yankees!”

Following other ventures, he eventually found his true calling as a Research Assistant at UC San Diego, where his lifelong passion for early baseball history began to flourish.

In 1991, Jim retired early and relocated to Cooperstown, NY, home of the Baseball Hall of Fame, to immerse himself further in his research and writing. There, he co-authored his first book, Ernest Thayer and “Casey at the Bat” Background and Characters of Baseball’s Most Famous Poem.

Soon after, Jim returned to his hometown of Albany, New York where he continued to write extensively, contributing articles to The Californian and other publications. Jim’s dedication to his craft culminated in a second book, currently under review, which focused on Abraham Lincoln’s role in promoting fair play and women's rights.

Jim walked countless miles throughout Albany daily, often visiting his favorite writing and research sites, the College of Saint Rose and the University at Albany Libraries. He reconnected with many high school and college friends, treasuring their gatherings, especially if these occurred at Jack’s Diner or the Daily Grind, where it seemed he would know everyone. Jim never forgot anyone’s birthday or anniversary; the family could always count on a card arriving from Jim. Another of Jim’s talents was his ability to recall your glory days. Whether it was football, basketball, baseball, or softball, if he had been to your game, or played alongside you decades ago, he could give you a play-by-play today.

Jim’s warm and approachable nature made him a friend to everyone he met. He had a rare gift for conversation and could easily draw stories and laughter from strangers. Jim's kindness, curiosity, and love for people will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to your favorite charity in his name.

Family and friends are invited to gather at 11:45 AM for a celebration of Jim’s life on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 12 Noon, at the Daniel Keenan Funeral Home at 490 Delaware Ave, Albany, NY. Condolences can be posted at danielkeenanfuneralhome.com.