Bradford “Buster” Moore died unexpectedly on April 17, 2015, at his home in Tisbury. He was born April 5, 1969, the only child of Betsy Bradford (Saccocia) Moore of Bluffton, S.C. (formerly of Lowell) and James T. Moore of Nashua, N.H. He was named for Mayflower-era Governor William Bradford, a distant relative.
Buster attended the Lowell Public Schools, and graduated from Lowell High School in 1987. He moved to Martha’s Vineyard in 1990, and worked for the rest of his life in restaurants around the Island. Buster was the manager of Louis’s Restaurant for 17 years, and later worked as an open-hearth chef at Edgartown’s Square Rigger.
Buster leaves his mother Betsy B. Moore, uncle Kenneth Saccocia of Massachusetts and South Carolina, stepbrother Thomas R. Moore, stepsister Margy Dellagotta, and half-brother Matthew S. Moore. In addition to his father’s widow, Margaret Moore of Merrimack, N.H., he also leaves many cherished friends and his two beloved cats, Thelonious and Django.
Buster was a prolific writer, artist, and musician, and lived an artist’s life. He was a voracious reader, no matter his circumstances; his mother recalls the librarian of his elementary school telling her that Buster had probably read every book in the school library. His stories, poetry, and musings were published in a host of Vineyard publications, as well as nationally. His artwork was celebrated in several gallery showings around Martha’s Vineyard, and his eclectic bands — including Mousey Tongue, Loira Burra, No Show, and the Diarrhea Roses — were regional sensations. His most recent musical collaboration was the Black Joke Record, available on Soundcloud.com.
His many friends and admirers remember Buster as an inspiring person — a musical, artistic, and literary influence. His dry, sardonic humor was just as often mixed with whimsy and poignance. The Vineyard’s cold winters and busy tourist season inspired a strong work ethic, and he would keep co-workers in laughter and music. He was generous with his poetry — sometimes sending friends home with bespoke verses — as well as mix CDs.
Buster’s passing at the tender age of 46 is truly a tragedy. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, loving him, and calling him friend. He left a footprint on everyone’s heart, and made a difference in their lives.
A celebration of his life will occur in June on the Vineyard, with the details to be released at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bradford “Buster” Moore Fund, c/o MacKinnon Funeral Home, 760 Washington St., Whitman, MA 02382.
