September 20, 2026, 75, – Paul Patrick “Pat” Mooring, 75, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, September 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Pat was born in Wayne County on September 24, 1950, to the late Henry L. Mooring and Ivor Marie Lancaster Mooring. He was a man who believed in hard work, serving others, and making a difference wherever life took him. In addition to his parents, Pat was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Harrison Mooring; and his brothers, Bill Mooring and Archie Mooring.
For many years, Pat worked as a truck driver with Dinner Bell in Wilson before later serving as a service man with Winn-Dixie. His working years were marked by dedication and a willingness to lend a helping hand.
For 26 years, Pat could be found on ballfields throughout the area, proudly serving as an umpire for both baseball and softball. More than simply calling balls and strikes, Pat became a familiar and respected face to generations of players and families. He loved the game, but even more, he loved the young people who played it.
Pat had a special heart for children and was known for his generosity toward them. Throughout the years, he organized and supported numerous fundraisers to help children and families in need. Helping others was not something Pat did for recognition; it was simply part of who he was.
His spirit of service also extended to his military career. Pat proudly served in the North Carolina Army National Guard before retiring from his military service. He carried that same sense of commitment, responsibility, and service into every chapter of his life.
Pat leaves behind a family who will forever cherish the memories he made with them. He is survived by his wife, Diane Whitley Mooring; his sons, Paul Mooring (Lynn Barber) and Steven Wayne Mooring (Melissa Hill Mooring); and his grandchildren, Patrick Mooring, William Mooring, Lillie Mooring, Chloe Ann Mooring, and Max Mooring. Also surviving is a special sister-in-law, Ann Mooring, whom he loved dearly and her daughter, Ava.
He is also survived by Diane’s family, whom he loved as his own: her daughters, Javita Henderson (Ron) and Shannon Evans (Jay); and grandchildren, Damian Henderson (Mia), Whitley Nicole Henderson (J), Darius Henderson, Shiane Evans, and Carli-Rae Evans.
Pat also leaves behind many special friends from the National Guard including his brother of the heart, Keith Grice, and his wife, Joyce, whose friendship was a treasured part of his life.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Free Chapel P.F.W.B. Church. A service to celebrate Pat’s life will be on Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. in Free Chapel P.F.W.B. Church with Pastor Ronnie Weaver and Pastor Dane Williford officiating. Interment will be in the Lancaster Family Cemetery.
Pat’s legacy will not simply be found in the places where he worked or the many ballfields where he stood behind the plate. It will be found in the children he encouraged, the families he helped, the games he faithfully served, the country he proudly served, and, most importantly, in the people he loved.
Though he has left this earthly field, the impact of his life will continue in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His was a life of service, generosity, friendship, and love—and he will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Free Chapel P.F.W.B. Church, 3302 NC Hwy 111 North, Goldsboro, North Carolina 27534.
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