Ezekiel “Zeke” Moore Obituary, HOUSTON, Texas — Ezekiel “Zeke” Moore, former Houston Oilers cornerback and longtime Houston community figure, died on September 22, 2026, at the age of 82. Born December 2, 1943, in Tuskegee, Alabama, Moore was remembered for a life marked by athletic achievement, leadership, and service to his community.
Moore’s athletic career began during his high school years at Booker T. Washington High School and Tuskegee Laboratory High School. He competed in football, basketball, baseball, and track, earning All-State and All-District recognition in basketball. During his senior year, he also served as captain of both his football and basketball teams.
He continued his education and football career at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, where he played as a halfback, defensive back, and return specialist. In 1964, Moore led the team in scoring and produced several notable performances, including a 101-yard interception return and multiple long touchdown returns. By 1966, he had become a team co-captain and one of the program’s leading players, recording six interceptions in nine games that season.
Moore was selected by the Houston Oilers in the fifth round of the 1967 NFL/AFL Draft. He spent his entire 11-year professional football career with the franchise, initially contributing as a kick returner before establishing himself as a starting cornerback. His professional accomplishments included an AFL All-Star selection in 1969 and a Pro Bowl appearance in 1970.
During his career, Moore appeared in 145 games and recorded 24 interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns. He remained an important part of the Oilers’ defense throughout the 1970s, earning recognition for his speed, instincts, and dependable play.
Following his retirement from professional football, Moore continued his involvement in Houston and public service. He spent five years serving as a Houston Texans ambassador and later became president of the Townwood Homeowners Association in Houston. He also served as a Texas Registered Peace Officer, continuing a commitment to leadership and service beyond his football career.
Moore’s contributions to football were recognized through his induction into the Lincoln University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2011. He was also selected by fans for the Houston Oilers’ 30th Anniversary Dream Team in 1989, further reflecting the lasting connection he maintained with the franchise and its supporters.
Ezekiel “Zeke” Moore leaves behind a legacy shaped by his accomplishments on the football field and his continued service to the Houston community. His passing marks the loss of a former professional athlete and community leader whose career extended well beyond his playing days. Condolences are extended to his family, friends, former teammates, and all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
