Life Member Leaves Behind a Legacy of Pride

For 75 remarkable years, Patrick Edward Moran (BBA ’49) cheered on the Cougar, rain or shine, win or lose, spreading school pride wherever he went. A longtime season ticket holder and proud alumnus, Moran passed away on March 24, 2025, at the age of 98. Though his absence will be deeply missed by the UH community he supported for decades, his unwavering dedication lives on through the planned gift he bequeathed to his beloved alma mater.

Born on Dec. 13, 1926, in Anderson, Texas, Moran faced adversity early in life. After the sudden death of his father, he moved with his mother to Houston and worked nights to help support his family while attending high school, demonstrating remarkable duty and perseverance. In 1944, shortly after graduating, Moran volunteered for service in the Army Air Corps. Trained as a cryptographer, he was deployed to Europe in the closing months of World War II and served in Frankfurt, Paris and Naples before being honorably discharged in 1946 with the rank of Sergeant. He later volunteered for the reserves during the Korean War, though he was never called to active duty.

Upon returning home, his grandfather encouraged full-time enrollment at the University of Houston. Within just two and a half years, Moran graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. He went on to see a successful career as a comptroller for three different firms, culminating in his retirement at the age of 56.

Throughout his professional journey, his true spirit as a Cougar never waned. In 2014, he became a Life Member.

Moran embodied the true spirit of a supporter. His loyalty to the University was not about recognition or accolades; it was about love for the teams, the students and the institution that helped shape him. He shared that love generously, building friendships and community through decades of Cougar spirit.

In addition to a lifetime of support, Patrick Moran made a quiet and enduring commitment to the University of Houston. Through a planned gift included in his will, he extended his impact beyond his lifetime, leaving a legacy rooted in love for the university and belief in its future. It was a personal gesture that speaks volumes, a lasting reflection of the values he lived by and the community he helped build. His generosity will continue to uplift students for years to come, a powerful reminder that Cougar spirit lives on through those who choose to give back.