Edward Lawrence Moriarty

Edward “Ed” Moriarty was born in Kingman, Arizona on June 20, 1941 and grew up in Southern California where he graduated as a star basketball and baseball player at Santa Ana High School.  It was here where his base values of hard work, teamwork and leadership were developed.    

He believed in things that were bigger than himself, that success comes with working together, and that happiness was living up to your potential.

He loved his country and his community.  He proudly served as a Marine and was instrumental in establishing Toys for Tots in Orlando, Florida.  He often said, “Once a Marine, always a Marine.”  He was very active in various charities and associations throughout his life, but most proud of being a Little League Baseball Coach and Indian Guide Chief.

He said that he was blessed to have worked for The Disney Company where he was among the first Cast members hired to open the Walt Disney World Resort in 1971.  After 20 years with Disney, he retired and enjoyed playing golf and volunteering.  Having “played enough golf,” Ed began a second career as President of Ron Jon’s Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach where he helped expand to new locations around the United States for over 14 years.  Whether at Disney or Ron Jon’s, he took so much joy in building teams, inspiring them and winning together.

He is survived by the love of his life of 50 years, Jan Moriarty.  They wanted to marry after their first date, but Jan’s Father said they should wait a month, so they did.  He is also survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Amie Moriarty, daughter and son-in-law, Megan Moriarty Ferrara and Michael Ferrara, and four grandchildren: Edward William “EW” Moriarty, Cheney Moriarty, and twins Joshua and Reese Ferrara.  Ed was extremely generous in life, and the happiness and support given his family was his greatest gift of all.  

Ed Moriarty passed away on December 28, 2018 in Highlands, North Carolina.  For over 30 years he called Highlands his special place.  He passed with dignity and grace surrounded by family and friends.

Services will be January 5, 2019 at Highlands United Methodist Church, 315 Main Street, Highlands, North Carolina, 28741.  Visitation will begin at 10:00am followed services at 11:00am.  The family will also having a memorial service in Orlando, Florida in late January.

If you are inspired, please support the great work at the American Cancer Society or the Cashiers Highlands Humane Society.

Beck Funeral Home, in Clayton, Georgia, is in charge of the arrangements. If there are any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.

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