Drury Louis Moore, Jr.

Drury Louis Moore, Jr., affectionately known as Lou to his friends and family, passed away on March 12, 2026, in Overland Park, Kansas. Born on August 5, 1938, in Chillicothe, Missouri, Lou lived a life defined by deep family bonds, dedicated service, and a remarkable range of passions.

He was preceded in death by his son, Drury Louis Moore, III, and his nephew Brad Riley. Lou is survived by his wife, Joan M. Sailler-Moore; his sons, Joe Davis Moore and Jason Royce Moore; his sisters, Joyce “Cookie” Riley and Brenda Ramsey; his brother, Keith Moore; his four grandchildren, Melanie Moore, Mallory Bounds, Jamie Moore, and Christopher Moore; his four great-grandchildren; and his cherished nieces, Nickie Riley and Kyla Cosler.

A leader in the construction industry, Lou served as Vice President of Campbell and Co., where he helped design and build the Truman Sports Complex and the original MCI Airport. He later founded Moore Associates and co-founded SMS Industries in North Kansas City. Even after selling his businesses, he continued drafting projects from home until his retirement. A veteran, he served in the National Guard 110th Engineers as a Sergeant. For 22 years, he volunteered as a captain with the Shawnee Fire Department, helping establish the rescue squad and secure Johnson County’s first aerial apparatus. He was also a longtime member of the Shawnee American Legion, Post 327.

Lou’s love of military history led him to become an early member and later COO of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association, where his award-winning restorations of historic vehicles earned widespread respect. He found joy in drumming with country western bands, especially at the BK Lounge, and cherished quiet days fishing. In his later years, he discovered a talent for painting scenes of Old Mexico. An avid traveler, he held special affection for Ireland and Mexico, where he owned a home and spent winters with an adopted family he deeply loved. He enjoyed cooking and experimenting with recipes, dancing, riding his Harley Davidson trike, and savoring a good gin and tonic or margarita. Above all, Lou embraced life with energy, creativity, and an open heart. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.