Geraldine "Gerri" Moody

Geraldine Moody, affectionately known as Gerri, was born on December 30, 1929, in Teague, Texas, to the late Handy L. Lacy and Estelle (Session) Lacy. The youngest of five children, Gerri grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings: Handy L. Lacy Jr., Ruth Lacy-Moore, Bill Lacy, and Johnny D. Lacy-Davis—all of whom preceded her in death.

After her mother’s passing, Gerri’s father relocated the family to Waxahachie, Texas. There, he married Claudia Washington, whom Gerri held in deep regard, admiring her dedication and the love she poured into their family. From this union came Gerri’s beloved younger brother, Bobby Ray Lacy, who also preceded her in death.

Gerri often fondly recalled stories from her early childhood, especially with her brother Bobby Ray. She would be at parties and Bobby Ray would have to tag along. While dancing and having a good time, she always ensured her little brother would not leave her and go home. If she did not see him, she would leave running, trying to beat him home. Their bond was tender, playful, and full of laughter—memories Gerri held close throughout her life.

She also warmly remembered her step-siblings—James Washington, Cleo Washington, Talmadge Washington, and Louella Washington-Sims—all of whom have gone before her.

Gerri graduated from Oak Lawn Elementary and High School in Waxahachie during segregation, when Oak Lawn was the only school for “colored” children. Despite the challenges of the time, Gerri thrived in her education and community. She became a member of Joshua Chapel A&M Church, where she joyfully participated in youth activities.

In 1960, Gerri married Edward Moody, a proud United States Air Force serviceman. Their union took them worldwide—from Otis Air Force Base in Massachusetts to bases in California, Japan, and North Carolina—before eventually settling in Denver, Colorado, after Edward’s retirement. Along the way, Gerri built a beautiful life full of laughter, love, and dedication to her faith and family.

A woman of deep devotion and faith, Gerri served as a deaconess and sang in the choir in Okinawa, Japan. Her spiritual journey was enriched by the guidance of pastors like Reverend Odell, who was her pastor while she and Edward were stationed overseas. After his retirement, Reverend Odell relocated to Denver and joined King Baptist Church—where Gerri also became a cherished member and continued her faithful walk.

Gerri’s hard-working spirit was evident in her many years of employment, including positions at the Rossonian Hotel in the historic Five Points District, Cosmopolitan Hotel, Doubletree Hotel, LSG Sky Chef, and Montgomery Wards.

Above all, Gerri was a nurturer. She raised not only her children, Tommy Loyd (Pearl) of El Paso, Texas, and Peggy Craft (Mack) of Aurora, Colorado, who are left to cherish her memory, but also lovingly helped raise her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Her warmth and generosity extended to everyone she met—including the many grandchildren who survive her: Monya Guinyard (David) of Waxahachie, Texas; Brian Tatum (Stephanie) of Aurora, Colorado; LaShawnda Dixon (Bobby) of Denver, Colorado; Mack Craft, IV of Los Angeles, California; Angel Tatum of Columbia, South Carolina; Kim Walker (John) of Waco, Texas; Kayla Hawthorne of Waco, Texas; Kristal Brown of Richmond, Virginia; Jason Craft of Parker, Colorado and Brittney Craft of Aurora, Colorado.

She also leaves behind 17 great-grandchildren, each a joyful part of her legacy and a reflection of her love across generations. In addition, Gerri is lovingly remembered by a host of nieces and nephews, including Faye Montgomery, Willard Williams, Glenn Lacy, Lynn Davis, Belinda Square, Vera Crayton, Lane Lacy, Muriel Watson, Malee Craft, Lottie Wesley, Malachia Craft, and Malinda Craft —all of whom will forever hold her memory in their hearts.

Those who knew Gerri knew her love for life. She was a devoted bowler, proudly earning many trophies over the years, and enjoyed competitive games with her son, Tommy. Gerri also loved bingo, playing cards, and attending Oak Lawn reunions, where she reunited with fellow alumni from across the country.

Whether sneaking her grandchildren sips of her “favorite beverages”, cheering on a strike at the bowling alley, or offering gentle words of wisdom, Gerri’s presence lit up every space she entered—whether in the workplace, church, at home, or Hilltop Park. Her love and beautiful spirit were a steady and joyful force in the lives of all who knew her.