John Gabriel Mooney Sr.

We gather here today to celebrate and remember the incredible life of a man who meant the world to us—my father, John G Mooney Sr. At 90 years old, he lived a life rich with love, wisdom, and unwavering strength, leaving behind a legacy that will never fade. He was a family man. He was a serious man. He was a funny man. Many say he was a seriously funny man.

He was born in West Orange, NJ to Jim and Annie Mooney, who were from Ireland. He had an older brother Jim, who has since passed. He was an avid athlete growing up and especially loved basketball & baseball. The Boston Red Sox & NY Yankees were two of his favorite teams. Both he and his brother served in the US Navy, and he was honorably discharged from the United States Navy in 1955, after getting wounded in Korea. Upon his return back to the United States, he met his wife Helen and they married in 1958, and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2008, one year before she passed due to cancer. In 2009 my he sold his family home in Bloomfield, NJ and decided to “live in Paradise & move to Pine Lakes, Fort Myers, Fla”. He has truly enjoyed living in Pine Lakes, North Fort Myers, Fla. He is survived by his 4 children, 6 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and his partner Andi Emery.

Dad was more than just a father—he was a guiding light, a source of endless wisdom, and a steady presence in our lives. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds, always putting others before himself, always lending a helping hand to those in need. His life was a testament to perseverance, integrity, and love. Whether through quiet moments of wisdom or grand gestures of support, he taught us the true meaning of family. He coached his children in our youth sports activities, devoted countless hours to the community, and even helped establish the first girl’s basketball scholarship at St Francis College in Pa. His involvement with the various Veterans organizations knew no bounds. He became the Commander of his “home post”, Miles A Suarez Post 711 in Bloomfield, NJ and went on to become the New Jersey State Commander several years later, responsible for 70,000+ members. He was a distinguished All American Commander.

He had a way of making everyone feel important—whether through a warm smile, a comforting word, or his signature sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest days. He faced life with resilience and grace, always leading by example, always reminding us that the most important things in life are not measured in wealth or success, but in the love we share and the lives we touch.

Dad, your presence filled every room with warmth, your words with guidance, and your actions with love. Though our hearts ache with your passing, we find solace in knowing you lived a life full of purpose, surrounded by people who cherished you deeply. You may no longer walk beside us, but your spirit, your lessons, and your love will forever remain. You will B deeply missed, but NEVER forgotten!

Thank you for everything, Dad. You were, and always will be, MY hero, OUR hero. May God bless U, and May God bless America.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, May 30, 2025 at 11am at St. Therese Catholic Church, 20115 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers, FL with a reception to follow immediately after at Pine Lakes Clubhouse.