James Robert Mooney, age 82, of Huntsville, AL, formerly of Huntland, TN, passed away on March 10, 2025. A devoted educator and coach, James—affectionately known as “Coach” or “Buster”—dedicated his life to shaping young minds and making a lasting impact on those around him.
A funeral service will be held at 2 PM on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home, with Bro. Mike Robertson officiating. Burial will follow at McClure Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4 PM to 7 PM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home.
Born on August 24, 1942, in Huntland, TN, James was the son of the late Edgar Pete Mooney and Susan Vella Fanning Mooney. A proud 1960 graduate of Huntland High School, he answered the call to serve his country and was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served in Vietnam. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at Austin Peay State University and Athens State University before earning his Master’s Degree in School Administration from Middle Tennessee State University.
James dedicated over 30 years to Huntland High School, where he served as a physical education teacher, boys’ and girls’ basketball coach, and assistant football coach. His commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as he later served on the Franklin County Board of Education until his retirement. Even in retirement, James remained active, working at Lowe’s in Huntsville.
James was a former member of the Huntland Lions Club and was always present to support his family. Known as “PawPaw,” he could often be found in the stands, cheering on his grandchildren and offering sideline coaching advice.
He is survived by his best friend of 37 years, Jim Fondren; sons, Chris Mooney of Madison and Clay (Tara) Mooney of Huntland; grandchildren, Logan Mooney, Brianna Mooney, Kendall Mooney, Kaley Barnett, Bryant Mooney, and Briley Mooney; brother, Billy Mooney of Madison, AL; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Angela; brothers, Jimmy Mooney, Wayne Mooney, and Larry Mooney; and sister-in-law, Ruby Mooney.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Huntland Athletics.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James Robert Mooney.
