Ernest G. Moeller III

Ernest Gilbert “Gib” Moeller III, formerly of Miami, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, at his home in Monterey, Tennessee. He leaves behind a life full of collections, curiosities, and just enough mischief to be remembered with a smile. A 25-year veteran of the Miami-Dade Correctional Facility, Gib lived life with a unique blend of grit, tenacity, and the uncanny ability to haggle just about anything, anywhere, including places where prices were, in fact, not negotiable. After decades in Miami, Gib retired and traded palm trees for mountain peace, seeking a quieter life in Tennessee. Though “quiet” is a relative term for a man who lived with a big, bold spirit. A kid at heart, Gib never outgrew his love for toys, jokes, a good laugh, or a good deal. He was a lifelong collector of various vintage toys, G.I. Joes, pinball machines, old weapons, dusty watches, and cars that had potential if you squinted hard enough. If it could be tinkered with or bargained for, it had Gib written all over it. Thrift stores and swap shops were his playgrounds, always on the hunt for the next overlooked treasure. He persevered through chronic illness with determination, always chasing his next hobby or new passion. He married the love of his life, Kathleen Moeller, just before she gave him the ultimate gift—one of her kidneys, which kept him going far longer than anyone expected. Her love and her sacrifice gave us all more time with him than we thought we’d get, and in that time, he managed to frustrate, amuse, and surprise those around him in equal measure. Gib helped raise two strong, independent children, Reza and Mike, who carry forward his resilience, wit, and unfiltered honesty. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, of 33 years; children Reza and Michael; baby sisters Laura, Cindy, and Tiffany; younger brother Jonathon; mother-in-law Sarah; daughter-in-law Brittany; his best friend Mark; and his greatest joy, his grandson Finn. He is preceded in death by his parents, Tammy and Ernest Gilbert “Gil” Moeller Jr.; and sister Kimberly. Gib was one of a kind. And if there’s an afterlife with flea markets, pinball machines or half-priced relics, you can bet he’s there, trying to make a deal. Rest easy, Gib. We’ll miss you—and we promise to never pay retail. Arrangements and Care provided by D.M. Goff Funeral Home, Inc., 205 East Cleveland Avenue, Monterey, Tennessee 38574, Phone, 931.839.2311.

Ernest G. Moeller III

May 10, 1966 - July 30, 2025