Mary Jo Moles
Mary Jo Moles went to be with the Lord on Friday, January 30, 2026.
Mary Jo was born to Homer “Bud” and Grace Slayton on July 17, 1940, in Silverton, Oregon. She grew up in Silverton, where she met the love of her life, Richard “Dick” Moles, at a Silverton High School dance. They married in 1957 and moved to Seaside, Oregon. Together they were blessed with a 66-year marriage filled with love, laughter, and happiness.
Mary Jo and Dick returned to Silverton so that she could finish high school and they could begin raising their family. Over the years, she worked at the YMCA, Kelly School for the Deaf, Silver Falls School District, and for the City of Silverton as the swimming pool manager. Eventually, she started her own business, Moles Nursery, where she was able to live out her passion for gardening each day.
Mary Jo had an adventurous spirit. She could often be found boating and camping at Detroit Lake with her grandchildren during the summers, or traveling with Dick to accordion festivals. Wherever she was, her bright smile and distinct laugh could fill a room with joy.
Her determined “bulldog” spirit often led to unforgettable moments—leaving Dick shaking his head while Mary Jo laughed her way through the situation. One such moment was her decision to purchase a boat despite Dick’s protests. They named it The Persistent Lady, a name perfectly fitting for Mary Jo: driven, resilient, and full of passion through every hardship.
Mary Jo deeply loved her grandchildren. Her door was always open, and her home was always full—usually with a group of rowdy kid cousins eager to build forts, explore the property, drive the tractor, watch home videos, and hopefully sneak a can of Pepsi or a bowl of popcorn. She always welcomed overnight stays and made everyone feel cherished and loved.
Her favorite holidays were Christmas and Easter. She opened her home to family and friends, making every celebration feel magical. From epic Easter egg hunts (where some eggs were never found) to beautifully decorated Christmas trees surrounded by overflowing presents, Mary Jo created memories that will last forever. While she prepared and hosted, Dick would often play the piano or accordion, adding music to the joy.
Most importantly, Mary Jo loved the Lord. Because of her strong faith, she became a sounding board and safe place for anyone who was hurting or in need. She was steadfast, honest, and loving, and you could always count on her support.
Mary Jo was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Moles Sr.; her parents, Grace and Homer Slayton; her brother, Jerry Slayton; and her grandson, Michael Moles.
She is survived by her sons, Richard L. Moles Jr. and Roger Moles; her daughter, Rochelle (Moles) Kuenzi; 17 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend special thanks to the caretakers who remained faithfully by Mary Jo’s side in recent years, allowing her to enjoy the comfort of her own home. Your love and devotion meant the world, and you have truly become family.
Services to celebrate the life of Mary Jo Moles will be held at First Christian Church in Silverton, Oregon, on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. A reception will follow. At 3:00 p.m., a graveside service for family and close friends will take place at Union Hill Cemetery. Guests are encouraged to wear her favorite color, purple.