Obituary – Death – Cause of death News :

Curtis Jerome Moody, Founder of Moody Nolan, Passes Away at 73

The architecture world is mourning the loss of Curtis Jerome Moody, the visionary founder of Moody Nolan, the largest African American–owned architecture firm in the U.S. Moody passed away at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy that has forever changed the architectural landscape.

News of Moody’s passing was shared on the Moody Nolan website, prompting an outpouring of tributes from leaders both within and outside the architecture community. AIA president Kimberly Dowdell expressed her gratitude to Moody for his contributions, while former Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman described him as a “legend” and an “icon.”

Moody’s journey in architecture began in Columbus, Ohio, where he was born in 1950. Inspired by a friend’s father who was a builder, Moody pursued his passion for architecture and eventually enrolled in Ohio State University’s architecture program. After graduating in 1973, Moody founded Moody and Associates in 1982, which later evolved into Moody Nolan with the partnership of engineer Howard Nolan.

One of Moody Nolan’s proudest achievements was its work for Historically Black Universities and Colleges (HBCUs), starting with a project at Central State University in 1985. Over the years, Moody Nolan’s portfolio expanded to include projects for institutions like Morehouse University, Howard University, and Morgan State University.

Under Moody’s leadership, Moody Nolan received numerous accolades, including the prestigious AIA Architecture Award in 2021. The firm’s crowning achievement came in 2023 with the completion of the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina, which was named Project of the Year by Architect’s Newspaper.

Throughout his career, Moody was a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the architectural profession, never shying away from addressing the racism he encountered. His son, Jonathan Moody, now leads the firm as CEO, continuing his father’s legacy of excellence and integrity.

As the architecture world mourns the loss of a true visionary, Moody Nolan has announced that funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days. Curtis Jerome Moody’s impact on the industry will be felt for years to come, inspiring future generations to strive for success and uphold their ethics.

Who was Curtis Jerome Moody?

Curtis Jerome Moody was the founder of Moody Nolan, the largest African American-owned architecture firm in the U.S. He passed away at the age of 73.

How was Curtis Moody remembered by the architecture community?

Leaders in and outside of architecture shared kindred memories of Curtis Moody and looked back on the doors he opened. AIA president Kimberly Dowdell thanked Mr. Moody for his contributions.

What was Curtis Moody’s background in architecture?

Curtis Moody was born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1950. His interest in architecture began as a teenager when he saw drawings in a friend’s house and decided he wanted to pursue a career in the field.

What were some of the key achievements of Moody Nolan?

Moody Nolan was known for its work for Historically Black Universities and Colleges (HBCUs) and received numerous accolades, including being the first African American-owned firm to receive the AIA Architecture Award in 2021.

What was the significance of the International African American Museum project?

In 2023, Moody Nolan received acclaim for its work on the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina, alongside Pei Cobb Freed & Partners and Hood Design Studio. The project was named AN’s Project of the Year in 2023.

Curtis Jerome Moody, the visionary founder of Moody Nolan, passed away at the age of 73 over the weekend. The news of his death was shared on Moody Nolan’s website, leaving a void in the architecture community. Leaders from various fields, including architecture and politics, paid tribute to Moody and acknowledged the impact he had on the industry.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1950, Moody’s passion for architecture was ignited during his teenage years. Inspired by drawings he saw in a friend’s house, he knew that he wanted to pursue a career in architecture. This led him to enroll in Ohio State University’s architecture program in 1968, where he honed his skills and graduated in 1973.

In 1982, Moody founded Moody and Associates, with its headquarters in Columbus. The firm later evolved into Moody Nolan when Howard Nolan, an engineer, joined forces with Moody. Over the years, Moody Nolan grew into a prominent architectural firm with over 350 employees and 12 offices across the country.

One of Moody Nolan’s standout features was its commitment to working with Historically Black Universities and Colleges (HBCUs). Moody’s first project for an HBCU was a library and greenhouse at Ohio’s Central State University in 1985. The firm went on to work with institutions like Morehouse University, Howard University, and Morgan State University, leaving a lasting impact on these campuses.

In 2020, Moody’s son, Jonathan Moody, took over as CEO of Moody Nolan, while Curtis remained as chairman. The following year, in 2021, Moody Nolan made history by becoming the first African American-owned firm to receive the prestigious AIA Architecture Award. This recognition solidified Moody Nolan’s position as a trailblazer in the industry.

One of Moody Nolan’s most celebrated projects was the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina, completed in 2023. The firm’s work on this project, alongside renowned partners, earned them the title of Project of the Year by AN. This accolade further underscored Moody Nolan’s reputation for excellence in design and innovation.

Throughout his career, Moody faced and openly discussed the racism he encountered in the industry. He always emphasized the importance of perseverance and ethical conduct to aspiring students, urging them to stay true to their values while striving for success. His words of wisdom resonated with many and served as a guiding light for those navigating similar challenges in the field of architecture.

As the news of Moody’s passing reverberated through the architecture community, tributes poured in from colleagues, friends, and admirers. His legacy as a visionary architect, a pioneer in minority business, and a mentor to many will continue to inspire generations to come.

Funeral arrangements for Curtis Jerome Moody will be announced later this week, giving family, friends, and colleagues an opportunity to honor and celebrate his remarkable life and contributions to the world of architecture.