Two hundred people honor legendary Athletics Director Mal Moore, who passed away March 30, during a Celebration of Life on Thursday.
By Kelsey Melito
Contributing Writer
Photo: UA News
TUSCALOOSA — Mal Moore was more than an administrator for the University of Alabama. He was a leader, mentor and friend to everyone who knew him, friends recalled Thursday during a ceremony honoring the legendary athletics director who passed away March 30.
More than 200 people gathered in Coleman Coliseum for a Celebration of Life honoring Moore, whose favorite song, “You Call Everybody Darlin,’” softly played as members of the community and University entered the ceremony.
The ceremony began with a video of Moore’s life. For people who knew Moore, it served as a reminder of the characteristics they loved. For those who didn’t, it was an eye opening experience. He was no longer seen solely as an administrator, but a genuine family man and Southern gentleman who was dedicated to the Tide.
The speakers, chosen by Moore’s daughter, Heather Cook, recalled many memories that demonstrated the characteristics that made Moore special.
“Mal would always be telling stories,” said UA Chancellor Robert Witt. “His stories were his way of making suggestions and giving advice.”
Each speaker spoke of Moore’s honesty, respect and genuine kindness.
“He gave the Crimson Tide a soul,” said Head Golf Coach Jay Seawell. “He was our heartbeat.”
Moore was an athlete, a coach and an administrator for the university. He understood the university from all angles, speakers said. He was a proud member of the Tide community and had many aspirations for where it could go.
“Mal navigated the waters of the NCAA and SEC with class and dignity that was unflappable,” said Head Football Coach Nick Saban.
The Crimson Tide was more than a team, a school or a business to Mal Moore, it was a lifestyle, the speakers said. Moore lived and breathed crimson and white, instilling that passion into everyone he met.
Moore was able to change his aspirations into reality and moved the university as a whole to the top. During his tenure, the University’s athletics program became one of the most prominent in the nation.
Saban concluded by stamping the legacy of Moore in few words: “Mal was a true champion in every sense of the word.”
