Richard L. “Dick” Moats, 87 of Taylorville, passed away, surrounded by family, at 8:03 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Carriage Crossing Senior Living in Taylorville. He was born on June 22, 1936, in Taylorville, the son of Roy and Ruth (Oliver) Moats. He married his teenage sweetheart, Mary V. Wuebbles, on January 4, 1958, in Carlyle. Their enduring love story lasted until Mary’s passing on March 3, 2001. Dick graduated from Heyworth High School in 1954. He served in the United States Air Force as a procurement specialist, as well as devoting 25 years to his country in the Illinois Air National Guard with the 183rd Wing, retiring as a Master Sergeant. His occupation spanned 25 years with The State of Illinois Department of Vocational Education, retiring in 1999.
Dick had a passion for playing cards and watching basketball, indulging these pastimes with great enthusiasm and joy. As it became more challenging for him to venture out, he truly enjoyed cheering on the Taylorville Tornadoes, as he watched them on Tommy TV.
He also loved coaching and volunteered his time with many Little League, as well as Biddy Basketball teams throughout the years.
In addition to his love for youth sports, Dick loved to spend time exploring all-town garage sales and renovating houses.
He is survived by his children: Angie Moats, Jim (Jenny) Moats, and Nicki (Aaron) Lane all of Taylorville; grandchildren: Matthew (Monica) Adams, Abby Moats, Jordan Moats, Faith Moats, Mia Lane, and Bree Lane; great grandchildren: Maddox Adams and Malcolm Adams; and sister: Bonnie Hastings. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and siblings: Eileen McKenzie, Evelyn Ruble, Shirley Sheppard, Elmer Moats, and Gene Moats. Although his surviving family will miss him dearly, they are comforted to think of his precious reunion with his beloved wife, siblings and treasured friends that have gone before him.
The funeral service for Dick will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at McClure Funeral Home with Rev. Tom Bellegante officiating. A visitation will take place from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Burial, with military graveside rites, will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Taylorville High School Tommy TV program, or the Christian County Senior Citizens Center. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
