A house RESOLUTION

 

TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF PAT GIBSON-HYE MOORE OF FLORENCE AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were saddened to learn of the death of Pat Gibson-Hye Moore of Florence at the venerable age of 72 on January 2, 2025. She was surrounded by her beloved husband, Kermit Moore, and the family; and

 

Whereas, Pat Gibson-Hye Moore's life was defined by an unwavering commitment to serving others and her beloved City of Florence. Born on June 16, 1952, she left an indelible mark on the community until her passing on January 2, 2025, because Pat dedicated herself to creating a Florence where every citizen could thrive. Her own early experiences with hardship, which stemmed from extreme poverty that led to her adoption and a period of homelessness as a young woman, ignited a passion for helping those most in need; and

 

Whereas, throughout her extensive career in public service, Pat consistently put the well-being of her neighbors at the forefront. Between 1995 and 2016, she served with distinction on multiple boards, including the Florence Housing Board, Florence Transportation Commission, and Florence One School District Board. In 2016, her dedication and leadership propelled her to the Florence City Council, where every decision she made was driven by her commitment to achieving the highest quality of life for all citizens; and

 

Whereas, Pat's work in addressing homelessness became one of the hallmarks of her career. Whether personally assisting a family in finding shelter or advocating for large-scale solutions, she was a tireless champion for the vulnerable. Her vigorous support of the development of Hope Village, a transformative "tiny house" community designed to provide safe, dignified housing for those experiencing homelessness, has changed countless lives and continues to inspire community-based solutions for one of Florence's most pressing challenges. Beyond her advocacy for the homeless, Pat recognized that the strength of a community is built on opportunities for recreation and engagement for all ages. She founded the East Florence Community Organization to address the unmet needs of children, teens, and seniors in impoverished neighborhoods. She led the development of the Pearl Moore Basketball Gymnasium in West Florence. These initiatives provided safe spaces for physical activity, social interaction, and community pride, investments that enriched the lives of many; and

 

Whereas, her most widely celebrated accomplishment was founding the South Carolina Pecan Festival in 2003. Under Pat's visionary leadership, the festival blossomed into one of the Pee Dee region's most significant cultural events, consistently winning Best of the Pee Dee awards, earning national attention, and bringing millions of dollars to downtown businesses. Pat cherished the festival's Gospel Stage, a symbol of her enduring faith and desire to uplift the community through celebration and unity; and

 

Whereas, a prominent local pastor described her as "a walking sermon," and countless residents of Florence stated that were it not for Pat's help, they would not be alive or would not have accomplished their dreams. Even as she bravely battled a recurrence of lung cancer, a struggle that ultimately led to her decision not to seek re-election, her spirit never wavered. During her final days in December 2024, she successfully organized her last act of kindness by arranging that holiday gifts be delivered to every child living in the city's shelters; and

 

Whereas, Pat's legacy is marked by transformative service, community revitalization, and an enduring belief that every citizen deserves dignity, opportunity, and hope. Her remarkable journey will inspire future generations to serve with heart and conviction. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Pat Gibson-Hye Moore of Florence and extend the deepest sympathy to her family and many friends.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family.

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