Vance Gaylord Moore, age 94 of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away August 16, 2026. He was born in Greenville, Michigan, on January 16, 1932, where he grew up climbing apple trees, hunting small game, and spearing pike until joining the Navy at age 18. Vance proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 27 years before retiring in 1978 as a respected Senior Chief Petty Officer. His first duty was on the USS Bennington as an aircraft mechanic. The Bennington had a wooden deck, and Vance often told stories of how, when the Navy changed from propeller to jet aircraft, the deck of the Bennington would catch fire.

He served four tours in Vietnam and was present during the Tet Offensive in 1968. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (4 stars), and Vietnam Campaign Medal. He also served in Korea where he was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.

After retiring from the Navy, he started a lawn service where he continued to work until his late 80’s, with his trademark rottweilers by his side. Vance loved football and softball and officiated high school football and girls’ softball for 20 years. Throughout his life, he remained loyal to his Michigan Wolverines.

Vance is preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Sarah Alvie Moore. He is survived by his four children – daughter Majie Moore Dodge, sons Robert (Marina) Moore, Myron (Jimmy Fields) Moore, and David (Julie) Moore; his grandchildren: Carly Mitchell, Philip Cason, Jessie (Noel) Moore, Crystal (Jason) Shapleigh, Sarah Moore, Tiffany (Howard) Cook, and Sammy (Sarah) Pendleton; great-grandsons Bradlee and Brian Shapleigh; and great-granddaughter Betsy Moore.

Vance will be remembered for his quick wit, his stories of Navy life, his love of our country, and the lasting impression he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His absence will be felt deeply by all who knew him – especially his family and friends – but his legacy and life defined by service will endure.

Fair winds and following seas, Senior Chief. Your watch is complete.

A graveside service will be held at the Jacksonville National Cemetery at 11:00 am on October 6, 2026. There will be a reception to follow.