Ernest Moody
2013-02-17A 1979 graduate from Oklahoma State University, he studied business management and was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. Carrying on the tradition of his father, Ernest took over the family business at age 33 where he continued to lead with integrity and kindness. Throughout his life, he showcased his dedication and passion for the Tulsa community by actively contributing to various philanthropies and holding leadership roles in several associations including: Catholic Charities, American Heart Association, Make-a-Wish Foundation, Tulsa Executives Association (TEA) and the Young Presidents Organization (YPO).
Ernest not only worked hard, but also played hard. Constantly on the move, many say Ernest “lived more in his 56 years than most get to do in 106.” He loved adventure; a few of his favorites included skydiving over the Alps, catching a 7 ft sailfish in Mexico and driving a Formula 1 racecar. When Ernest wasn’t at work or with his family, he could usually be found fishing and boating at the lake.
Ernest was extremely loving and proud of his wife Rhonda Moody of Tulsa, daughter Melissa Moody of Fort Worth, stepson Jason Scott, Jason’s wife Teresa, and Jason’s son Chase all of Mannford, and stepson Brian Scott of Tulsa.
Ernest is survived by his immediate family mentioned above, his siblings Melinda Claiborne, Pat Kaltenbach, Emily Boyd and Kevin Moody of Tulsa, as well as several nieces and nephews: Audrey Johnson, Kyle Kaltenbach, Adam Kaltenbach, Ryan Claiborne, Alyson Kaltenbach, Andrew Kaltenbach, Megan Claiborne, and Michelle Moody. He also has many adoring extended family members and friends too numerous to count. He is preceded in death by his parents Mildred and Ernest Moody II, and nephew Tyler Moody.
February 24, 1956 - February 17, 2013. Ernest L Moody, III grew up in a loving family with 5 children. He and his friends loved playing baseball in the large backyard/field, swimming and riding around their yard in the go cart that he and his father built. He graduated from OSU in 1974 with a degree in Business Administration. He was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. After gradualtion, he joined his family business where he worked along side his father, Ernest L Moody, Jr. learning all he could about the jewelry business. Upon the unexpected death of his father in 1989, Ernest stepped into the position as President and CEO where he remained until his death in 2013. He loved his job and excelled at it. He was active in many local organizations including, Rotary, Tulsa Executives Association and Young Presidents Organization. Ernest was an avid lake enthusiast and eventually bought a home on Grand Lake. He loved boating and fishing and all things "lake". The lake was his happy place where he would go to play and relax with family and friends. Ernest was married to Rhonda and they had one daughter, Melissa. He also raised his two step sons, Brian and Jason. He loved his family and was proud of the adults they all became. Ernest is greatly missed by the business world and by his family and friends!
tribute by Patricia Kaltenbach