By MOLLIE BROWN/For the Reporter

CALERA – The Calera community is saddened over the unexpected death of Calera Chamber of Commerce Executive Assistant Myra Moore on June 9.

Executive Director Gail Blankenship said Moore was a wonderful asset to the chamber.

“Myra had us organized and punctual for every event,” Blankenship said. “It’s sad when someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. I treasure the times Myra and I had together, and quite honestly I don’t know how I will go on without her here by my side.”

Myra Lee Moore, age 62, was born in Maplesville. She led a very active life with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service, a Department of Defense entity, for 32 years, which included two tours in Iraq. She traveled the world planning and commanding exchanges, retiring as a colonel in 2009.

After retiring, Moore began a new adventure of doing the things she wanted to do just for fun. She enjoyed working with people and staying up to date on current business events and the economy, and soon found volunteer work at the Calera Chamber of Commerce. She began in May 2010 handling administrative tasks.

Calera Chamber board member State Farm agent Jami Noe recommended Moore for a volunteer position initially.

“When Myra moved here, she transferred her State Farm policies to my agency,” Noe said. “She came in to review her policies and had an impressive resume. She wanted some part-time work just to get some roots in the community and stay busy. I suggested the Chamber was in need of someone, but I didn’t know if it would be a paid position. She took it by the reins, getting us organized and more efficient.”

Funeral services were on June 12 at Nelson Funeral Home Chapel and burial at Hopewell Primitive Baptist Church in Fayette. Brother Bobby Robbins officiated. Moore is survived by husband John Moore of Calera; daughter Michelle Moore of Anniston; son Jason Moore of Mobile; brother Ricky Rhodes of Maplesville; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild and family and friends across the globe.