Adrianna Marinita Moore was a cherished daughter, sister, cousin, granddaughter, niece, goddaughter, colleague and friend. Born on February 17, 1988, in Walpole, Massachusetts, Moore was the only child of the late Stephen Elliott “House” Moore, a former offensive lineman for the New England Patriots. She graduated with honors from Germantown High School in 2006. Moore began her higher education journey at Spelman College and later completed her studies at the University of Memphis, where she earned two Bachelor of Science degrees in psychology and sociology.
At just 19 years old, while pursuing her degrees, Moore began working with Memphis (Tennessee) Parks as a day camp aide at the historic Orange Mound Community Center, guided by her mentor Kristine Strickland. Throughout the next 15 years she rose through the ranks, taking on roles such as recreation leader, assistant director, director, recreation program manager, community engagement administrator, and ultimately deputy director. She had also completed one year of NRPA’s Directors School and was a member of the CAPRA team that helped Memphis become accredited for the first time.
Moore’s deep love and commitment were always directed toward her family, friends and Memphis Parks. Her passion for her work was evident in her efforts to enhance her community, including leading a million-dollar literacy initiative and playing a crucial role in the rebranding of Memphis Parks from its former name, Parks and Neighborhoods. Moore’s dedication to the community was reflected in her ability to build lasting partnerships with local organizations across the Greater Memphis area. She believed there was no room for mediocrity because the youth of Memphis deserved her full effort and dedication. Her understanding of both the organization and the communities she served made her an exceptional leader who advocated for others with care and compassion.
Moore passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024, leaving behind a lasting legacy. She is survived by her mother Andrea Earthman (Moore-Bailey) Lathan, father James Lathan, brother Raphael Armon, grandmother Annie Earthman, and great aunt Margaret Smith. She is also mourned by her beloved sister-cousins Arielle Earthman and Marchelle Meadows, godsons Ayden “Bookie” Earthman and JaRell Blackburn, and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Her cherished pets, King Louie Farrakhan and Foxxi Lady Moore, will miss her dearly.
Moore was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather Andrew Earthman, paternal grandparents Elmer Moore Sr. and Erma Moore, and cousin Margralita Smith.