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VIRGINIA BEACH – Candace Beaman Moore, a distinguished medical professional and devoted servant to her country and community, passed away Aug. 3, 2024, in Virginia Beach, Virginia at the age of 71. Born on March 20, 1953, in Newport News, Virginia, Candace was the beloved daughter of Jean Atkins Beaman and the late Walter Edwards Beaman. Her childhood was spent between Virginia Beach and Franklin, where she graduated from Franklin High, class of 1971. She often remembered growing up in Franklin as being filled with warmth, familiarity and instilling a strong sense of place, shaping lifelong memories and a deep appreciation for small town Virginia. On June 7, 1975, she married her true love, Jack Moore of Virginia Beach.

Candace’s remarkable life was defined by a deep commitment to service and an enduring desire to make a difference. She received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Virginia in 1975. She went on to earn her Master of Science in Community Health Nursing and Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner from the Medical College of Virginia. She worked in Obstetrics at Virginia Beach Hospital and as the Director of Nurses for the Virginia Department of Health. She then embarked on an extraordinary 28-year career with the U.S. Department of State as a Medical Officer. Her work as a Foreign Service Nurse Practitioner took her to embassies worldwide, including Niger, Senegal, Ecuador, Hungary, Bulgaria, Honduras, and England. Over the course of her career, she provided medical care to thousands, embodying the very essence of compassion and professionalism. For most of these assignments she served as the sole Medical Officer at that embassy. In addition to her clinical duties, Candace held several key leadership positions. She served as Deputy Program Chief for Foreign Programs in Washington, D.C., where she managed medical evacuations. She also held the position of Deputy Director of Nurse Practitioners for the Department of State.

Upon her retirement from the Foreign Service, Candace returned to Virginia where she and Jack built a home in Crozet. However, her dedication to service remained unwavering. After retiring, she did several short foreign assignments to fill the vacancies of other health professionals.

When she was back with the Virginia Health Department, she worked with refugees from the International Rescue Committee, providing essential medical care and a warm welcome during their first 45 days in the United States. She also volunteered with Service Dogs of Virginia and the Virginia Electoral Office, while continuing her career in public health.

Her zest for life was inspiring. After her first trip out of the country at age 20, she traveled to over 65 countries on nearly every continent. She was an adventurer at heart, driven by a deep curiosity and a passion for exploring diverse cultures, environments, and local traditions of the world. Her travels nurtured a deep sense of empathy and open-mindedness. She earned the admiration of everyone she encountered across the globe, defying stereotypes and biases related to being American or a woman. She approached new experiences with a genuine respect and understanding, recognizing the value in different ways of life and perspectives. Along with globetrotting, she enjoyed cooking, music, hiking, politics, dogs and of course, the UVA “Hoos.”

Candace is survived by her husband of 49 years, Jack Moore, and their two daughters, Brittany Moore and Elizabeth Moore, who were the light of her life. Her mother, Jean Beaman, also survives her, as well as her two brothers, Tucker Beaman (Donna) and Brad Beaman (Gail). Candace’s legacy is one of extraordinary service, both abroad and at home and her impact will be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A memorial service will be held at Wright Funeral Home, 206 West Fourth Avenue, Franklin, Virginia, on Aug. 11, 2024, at 1 p.m. where family, friends and colleagues will gather to celebrate Candace’s remarkable life and contributions. To be followed by a graveside service at Poplar Springs Cemetery with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her honor to the Alzheimer’s Association, continuing the spirit of service and care that defined her life.

Candace’s life was a testament to the power of dedication and compassion. Her legacy of making a difference, whether abroad or in her own community, will continue to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org