William Burnham Moss, Jr., age 81, died on January 7, 2026 in Orange Park, Florida.

Bill was born in Newburgh, New York to William Moss Sr. and Juanita Playmale Moss. He grew up in the Miami area, graduated from Florida State University, and moved to Clay County after accepting a teaching position at Charles E Bennett Elementary in Green Cove Springs. He taught there for more than 30 years, impacting generations. In 1978 he married the love of his life, Elaine O’Neal Moss, and became a beloved stepfather. After he retired, Bill moved to Moosehaven where he discovered dear new friends and enjoyed being part of the active, close-knit community.

Bill had a quiet strength, keeping with the words of his revered John Wayne, “Talk low. Talk Slow. And don’t say too much.” His measured words, however, were always profoundly thoughtful and encouraging. If you are fortunate enough to be in receipt of one of his hand-written notes, surely you appreciate this gift.

Bill was preceded in death by his father and mother, his brother Gregory Moss Sr., and by his wife, Elaine. He is survived by his stepdaughters Kimberly Barker (Vic), and Shannon Lightcap, his grandchildren Stephanie Pearson (Bryan) and Logan Lightcap, his great grandson Nathan Pearson, his nephews Gregory Moss Jr. (Tara) and Jason Moss, his niece Juanita Lynn Moss, great nieces Susan Stewart (Warren) and Sydney Peterson (Alexander), great nephew Jonathan Knight, great-great nephew Jackson Warren and great-great niece Brooke Peterson. He also leaves behind many cherished friends.

A brief graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery, 4535 North Main Street, Jacksonville on Friday, January 16th at 11:00 AM. Please enter the cemetery through gate #1 on N. Main St.