Judith "Judy" Rae Moore

Judith Rae Moore, affectionately known as Judy, passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at her residence in Sioux City, IA at the age of 85. She was born on January 23, 1940, on a farm in Merrill, IA, to Vernon L. and Fern (Harrison) Bauerly. Judy's life was characterized by her profound love for her family and her unwavering dedication to her role as a homemaker, wife, mother, and grandmother.

At a young age, Judy's dad took a job with the Swift packing plant and her family moved to Sioux City. A graduate of Central High School, Judy's early life blossomed when she met her beloved husband, James "Jim" E. Moore who lived down the street (West 16th St. in Sioux City). They were high school sweethearts and were united in marriage on October 17, 1959, forming a partnership that would nurture four children. As Jim pursued his education and career, the family lived in several towns in Iowa including Carroll, Templeton, and Manning, ultimately settling back in Sioux City in 1972 after Jim accepted a position at the new West High School. He was a math teacher, track and cross country coach at West for several decades.

Judy was a vibrant and active woman who thrived in her roles both at home and in the community. An excellent homemaker, she maintained an organized and inviting household. Beyond her family responsibilities, Judy also lent her skills to the community by cleaning homes for individuals and businesses. Amidst her many commitments, she found joy in planning and coordinating events, especially for her Jewish friends in Sioux City and for the neighborhood with carnival games, creating memories that are cherished by many.

Judy had several interests and hobbies. She enjoyed rummaging, baking (pistachio dessert), being the game coordinator at family reunions which took place at the Sioux City Army National Guard (due to Bauerly service members) and Riverside Park in Sioux City. She also embraced the outdoors through camping and fishing. An advocate for health, she was proud to be an aerobics instructor, regularly taking long walks to maintain her vitality. Judy and Jim walked hand in hand on the city’s West side for many years. Her passion for life was evident in everything she did, and she was regarded as an honest, kind, and loving person who served as an excellent role model and friend.

In addition to her impactful community involvement, Judy took immense pride in her family, which she considered the cornerstone of her existence. She is survived by her four children: Ron (Carol) Moore of Sioux City, Don (Suzy) Moore of Lincoln City, Oregon, Rick (Lori) Moore of Sioux City, and Jayne (Jim) Hettinger of Sioux City. She is also survived by her two brothers, Bill Bauerly, Rick Bauerly and Jim Moore’s siblings; Betty Leckband, Jerry (Rhonda) Moore, Kathy Moore, Penny (John Treglia) Noble, Tim (Deb) Iverson, Bob (Vickie) Iverson, Tom (Cindy) Moore. She was blessed with many grandchildren, including Nick Moore, Sam (Tony Riedesel) Moore, Andy (Sara) Moore, Ashley (Grant) Kirkes, Brandon (Mariah) Moore, Aubreyann Moore, Simon Moore, Libby Moore, Ian Hettinger, Lexi Hettinger, and Lucas Hettinger. Additionally, Judy was a proud grandmother to 11 great grandchildren and 3½ great great grandchildren.

Judy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James "Jim" Moore, who passed away on March 14, 2025, her parents, Vern and Fern Bauerly, Jim Moore’s siblings, Bob (Gloria) Moore, Linda (Tiny) Foster, Sandy (Gary) Dickman, Jackie Osterholt and brother-in-law George Leckband.

A visitation to honor Judy's life will take place on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a Vigil Service at 7:00 PM at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel in Sioux City. A Mass will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Holy Cross Parish St Michael Catholic Church in Sioux City. A luncheon for all friends and family will follow immediately at the church. The burial will be at St. Joseph Ellendale Cemetery in Merrill IA.

In lieu of flowers, the family will organize a track scholarship at West High School in loving memory of Jim and Judy Moore. The family will match all proceeds. Donations can be made via Venmo at @jayne-hettinger.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the following people who we very impactful to our mom and dad: Nick Moore, Bill Bauerly, Ashley (Grant) Kirkes, Rhonda Capron Senior Support Services, Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel, Holy Cross Parish and Hospice of the Midwest.