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Light a Candle
It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Harry Phelps Moxley, 54. He was a bright spark in this world and will be deeply missed by so many. Harry left us suddenly and unexpectedly while he was vacationing with friends in Asheville, NC. Harry grew up in East Lansing where he attended the Bailey Elementary School, East Lansing High School, and Michigan State University where he earned a degree in Accounting in 1990. He spent his adult life in the East Lansing area, living not far from his original family home. In 1992, while still in high school, Harry became interested in politics. During the following years he worked on city, county, state, and national campaigns — as a strategist, a writer, and a fundraiser. His computer skills in identifying likely voters were especially welcomed. He worked with “moderates” of both political parties, with judicial and municipal independents, and on issue campaigns. He also was on the board of canvassers, involved in the 1990s county reapportionment, and was often consulted about “history.” Over a 25 year career, Harry held two important county positions — as a deputy to long time treasurer Don Moore and as chief administrator of the friend of the court. He took a leading role in improving the work of both agencies and he brought them both into the computer age. He also was an active volunteer in the East Lansing Bailey neighborhood association, and served as its president several times. Unlike most politicos, there are few media stories or photos that include Harry (he especially was known to be camera shy). But few have had more friends or real influence. Harry was extremely intelligent with a sharp intellect and an impressive memory and fondness for history, politics, and world culture. He was a voracious reader and media consumer with a vast library of books, movies, and music. He loved to travel, and shared so many wonderful stories of his adventures in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Harry loved animals—from his own beloved pets to the wild creatures in his yard—and made sure they were all safe and well cared for. He loved to cook, and was an accomplished host to many a dinner party, MSU sports gatherings, and fundraising events. Harry was an amazing mentor, colleague, and a fair and well-respected manager to everyone who had the opportunity to work with him. His friends and neighbors—from all walks of life-- were fortunate to have his loyal and unwavering friendship, even if much time had passed. He truly cared for the people he loved, and went above and beyond to ensure that he helped them in his quiet and humble way. Harry made a huge impact on so many individuals and never expected anything in return. Those who were lucky to know Harry, benefitted from his companionship, his long and thought-provoking conversations, his perspective on the world, his wise counsel, and his trust, confidentiality, and sage advice. His dry and particularly witty sense of humor will likely be missed most of all. His friends and colleagues can probably still hear his laugh. That genuine belly laugh that often left him breathless and turned his face red. Listening to that laugh was humor in itself and it was infectious. As an only child, with no living relatives, Harry's friends were his family. Harry and his friend, David Gordon, had a close and long lasting friendship, which began at Michigan State University. He was instrumental in bringing David and his wife Yuko together. Harry fulfilled the role of uncle to Eriko and Alissa, David and Yuko’s children. They often traveled together and Harry was a regular at Thanksgiving, where he enjoyed a great deal of stuffing! He was part of their family, and while he is gone now, will remain a positive guide in David, Yuko, Eriko, and Alissa’s memories going forward. The world lost one of the very best. He will be remembered by all that knew him and greatly missed.
