Pauline Gardner Moak

Pauline Gardner Moak passed over into glory on December 13, 2025, just a few weeks shy of her 100th birthday. She was born on January 27, 1926, to Junius Alton Gardner and Lyda Moore Gardner of Amite County, Mississippi. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband of 49 years, J. D. Moak and a sister, Marcelle Gardner Hemphill, (Albert).

J. D. and Pauline had one son, Charles Junius Moak (deceased) and three daughters: Janice Moak Sterling (Harold), Margaret Moak Hemphill (Tommy, deceased) and Laura Moak. Pauline is also survived by six grandchildren: K’Anna Baucom (Brian), Brad Sterling (Idalia), Rachel Graves (Stephen), Dave Hemphill (Cassie), Luke Hemphill (Jaemi) and Amy Sterling Thibideaux. She also leaves behind 18 great grandchildren and many great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was a charter member of Sunny Hill Baptist Church, now known as West McComb Baptist Church in Pike County, Mississippi and faithfully served there many years. In her 80’s she developed a passion for the homebound ministry and delivered Sermon tapes each week to those who could not attend services. She loved to knit and was quite accomplished. She spent many hours making sweaters, caps and blankets, for her children, grandchildren and friends. Pauline spent the last seven years of her life as a resident of Plainview Assisted Living in Richland Mississippi. She came to love the people there and counted them as family.

Pauline left a legacy of love for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and service to his church. She loved life, she loved laughter, she loved her family and friends, and she always had a good joke to tell. She knew that nothing great was accomplished without prayer and she, along with her friends at West McComb Baptist Church, spent many hours praying for God‘s will to be accomplished through their church family. Pauline will be missed by all who knew her and loved her.