Joseph T. Moore, owned Williams Insurance Agency

Joseph T. Moore of Rehoboth passed away peacefully in the presence of his family Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026.

Joe T, as he was known to his friends, was born at home in Wilson, N.C., and moved to Lewes with his parents and siblings in 1958. As a southern boy, he felt like a foreigner, but soon came to love our area. Being such an engaging character, Joe was loved by many, always lightening the mood with his creative jokes, and proud to share his southern roots.

After graduating high school, Pop, as Joe referred to his dad, convinced him to straighten up and join the military. Joe excelled as a Force Recon Marine.

During the time of his four years, 11 months, and 28 days of service, Joe was sent to conflict zones around the world. His decorations would be extensive, had the military acknowledged his combat record. Cold War proxy wars were going hot, and Joe was there, but officially he was not. He was often tasked with protecting intelligence units in hot zones because he was trusted to do so.

After leaving the military as a lance corporal, Joe entered the world of insurance, and again he excelled, rapidly moving into roles of great responsibility. As a young man, he was a company representative for Selective Insurance, where he met Bill Williams of Williams Insurance Agency. There, in 1972, he began a long, successful career. After 52 years at the Williams Agency, Joe retired as president and owner two years ago. Along the way he served as state and national director of Independent Insurance Agents of America and was chosen to create insurance-agent licensing exams. He was a board member of Bank of Delmarva and Rehoboth Beach Country Club. An avid golfer throughout his life, Joe often sponsored golfers both young and old, who shared his love of the game.

Joe is survived by his daughter, Wendi Moore; his granddaughter, Kaysie Moore; his sister, Susan Moore; his nephew, Joss Hudson, his wife Diana, and their daughters Kira and Savana; his nephew, Brax Hudson; his niece, Chela Hutchison; his life partner, Donna Davis; his dedicated personal assistant of 53 years, Carol Wright; and close friends near and far.

He was preceded in death by his mom, Eleanor Mae Moore; his dad, JT Moore; his sister, Carolyn Hutchison; and his wife, Janet Barr.

Services will be private and announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Meals on Wheels would be appreciated, as that was Joe’s charity of choice.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.