By Cary Shuman
Darren Moore
The Chelsea community and City Council President Leo Robinson are remembering retired firefighter Darren Moore with fondness following his death on Saturday, Nov. 25 at age 52.
During the Chelsea High School Class of 1982 35th Reunion held Saturday evening at the Merritt Club, many of Darren’s former classmates and friends learned of his passing. Reunion co-chair Allen Andrade led the assembled group in a moment of silence to honor their departed friend, classmate, and teammate.
Moore’s cousin, Robinson, reflected on Darren’s accomplishments as a Chelsea High Red Devil athlete competing in three varsity sports. Robinson described him as a personable and handsome young man whose warm smile reflected his confidence. As a team leader, Darren Moore distinguished himself through his grace and sportsmanship both on the court and in the field.
“Darren played football, basketball, and baseball at Chelsea High when the Red Devils were a hoop powerhouse in the Greater Boston League,” Robinson said. “Darren was also a coach of the Chelsea Pop Warner ‘A’ football team that rallied to defeat the San Francisco Bombers, 18-14, to win the 2001 national championship.”
Following his athletic achievements, Robinson noted that Darren became committed to providing Chelsea’s young people with the same benefits he had experienced through sports participation.
“Darren wanted to give back to the city that was so good to him as a kid,” Robinson said. “He really enjoyed his years as a coach and winning the national championship was a thrill for everyone involved in that historic season.”
Robinson was serving on the Board of Aldermen when Darren Moore was sworn in as a Chelsea firefighter, an occasion he recalled clearly.
“Darren’s family and I were so proud to be at City Hall and see him become a Chelsea firefighter,” Robinson said. “He served in the department for 20 years.”
Darren frequently joined Robinson, his brother Ron Robinson, and family friend Dale Johnson on camping trips and visits to Newport, R.I., Robinson noted.
“Darren was a just a good, fun-loving to be around,” Robinson said.
Debbie Cronin, a former CHS cheerleader and childhood friend of Darren’s, spoke of his welcoming and friendly character.
“Darren was a lifelong childhood friend and a genuinely good guy,” Cronin said. “His passing is a tough one. Over the last few years, I’d bump in to him at the most random of places and even though it was clear he had health issues, he always had a smile. Darren will be missed by all.”
Robinson announced his intention to request that the City Council observe a moment of silence in Darren Moore’s memory during their Monday night meeting at City Hall.
A visitation and memorial gathering for Darren Moore is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 1, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Frank Welsh and Sons Funeral Home, 718 Broadway, Chelsea. A service of remembrance and life tribute will commence at 7 p.m. at the funeral home.