Beatrice "Beezie" Moore

Beatrice “Beezie” Leyden Moore passed away Wednesday, August 12, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and a life well lived.

Beezie was born on February 3, 1935, in Denver, Colorado, to Eleanor Rosalia Kent and Theodore Leyden. When Beezie was born, her two-year-old sister, Eleanor, couldn’t pronounce “Beatrice” and instead called her “Beezie.” The nickname stuck, and she was lovingly known by that name for the rest of her life.

When she was four years old, Beezie’s family moved to Fresno, California. She eventually attended Santa Catalina School for Girls in Carmel as a member of its first graduating class and served as the school’s very first class president. There she formed a lifelong friendship with Laurie Angel McGuinness. Together, the two later established a scholarship fund in honor of Sister Kieran, the nun whose guidance and influence helped shape both of their lives.

Beezie was deeply committed to her community and proudly served on the Fresno County Grand Jury. She also had a lifelong love for animals and rarely passed up an opportunity to rescue one in need. Whether it was a stray cat or dog, an injured bird, or even a deer, Beezie believed every animal deserved compassion and care—even if it meant stopping during a vacation to help.

Creative by nature, Beezie had an exceptional eye for design and developed a successful second career designing homes. Her own beautifully designed and decorated residence earned recognition on the covers of both national and international home magazines, reflecting her remarkable talent and distinctive style.

Beezie was also an accomplished cook who delighted in bringing family and friends together around her table. Known as the best cook among her friends, she combined delicious meals with warmth, humor, and lively conversation. She was an attentive listener, quick-witted, and someone whose friendship was treasured by many.

An adventurous traveler, Beezie embraced opportunities to see the world. Among her favorite journeys were a cruise along the Nile River in Egypt, a trip through England with her lifelong friend Laurie McGuinness, a New England adventure with her sister Eleanor, niece Kathy, and daughter Deborah, and an unforgettable Alaskan cruise.

Beezie also adored the annual pack trips to Hobler lake in the high Sierras with the Bests, the Heckles and the Coyles. These three families with some others also hosted the huge annual Easter picnic which was not to be missed.

In 1997, Beezie moved to Cambria, California, where she embraced the community with enthusiasm. She became active in local politics, discovered a love of painting, and formed many deep and lasting friendships. She truly lived life to its fullest.

Beezie is survived by her children, James “Jack” Scarbrough of Fresno/Cambria, Deborah Scarborough of Paso Robles and John Moore of Hot Springs, Arkansas; her cherished granddaughter, Ellie Moore of Santa Barbara; her daughter-in-law Gina Edmonds Rodgers, son-in-law Mark Greenberg and her beloved nieces and nephews. And let’s not forget Hannah, her last rescue cat who was beyond adored

Beezie will be remembered for her generous heart, boundless creativity, sharp wit, unwavering compassion for animals, and the love she shared so freely with family and friends. Her kindness touched countless lives, and will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.