Dr. Joseph W. Moore, 97, passed away peacefully at home on Sept. 22.

Born Sept. 16, 1916, in Clanton, to J. Watts Moore and Emma Mullins Moore, Dr. Moore was pre-deceased by his college sweetheart and wife of 59 years, Shellye Jackson Moore.

He is survived by a daughter, Josephine Moore Hutchinson (Clark), a son, Jackson W. Moore (Betty) and their families of six grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Dr. Moore was educated in Chilton County public schools, The University of Alabama and Tulane University, where he received his medical degree.

He served in the U.S. Army for 42 months during World War II in the Pacific Theatre and was awarded the Bronze Medal for meritorious service.

Devoted to his hometown, he returned there following his military service to practice medicine with his brother, Dr. Charles Moore, in Moore Clinic for more than 50 years.

He was instrumental in the founding of Chilton County Hospital and was a member of the American Medical Society.

A devoted Christian, Dr. Moore was a deacon in the First Baptist Church of Clanton, founded by his great grandfather, where he taught Sunday School for more than 50 years.

He was an outdoors man enjoying golf, tennis, gardening and was an avid support of University of Alabama football.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the First Baptist Church of Clanton.

The family will receive visitors at 11:30 a.m. on Sept. 25 at Martin Funeral Home in Clanton.

A graveside service will follow at 1 p.m.

Martin Funeral Home directing.