On July 20, 2023, William “Cash” Moore, 85, an iconic businessman in Okaloosa County, passed away peacefully in the hospital with his beloved daughter Cashen Moore and her mother, Sheri Nesmith, by his side.

• He left behind a successful business and a lasting impact on his community. 

Cash began his legendary life on November 29, 1937, in Fairport, New York, born to Carl and Delores Dunn. Later on, he moved to the Emerald Coast, where he was raised by Richard Moore Sr., alongside six siblings: Dickie, Johnny, Jerry, Dee Dee, Sherry, and Margie.

• After graduating from Crestview High School, he embarked on his college journey, attending various schools in Mississippi before finding his place at Auburn University, where he honed the savvy business skills for which he became known.

During college, Cash worked in a clothing store near the campus, and cleverly sold football players’ tickets to games to earn money. His resourcefulness and ability to build relationships earned him the iconic moniker “Cash” and forever altered the trajectory of his life.

In 1965, Cash Moore achieved another milestone by opening his own bar, the Faux Pas, which swiftly became a popular hotspot on the coast.

His showman personality and unmatched talent for entertainment helped his business flourish, eventually expanding to include the largest independent liquor chain across Northwest Florida, encompassing 10 stores, 6 sports bars, a gentlemen’s club, and a night club.

• Despite his numerous successful ventures, it was Cash’s infectious personality that drew people together for nearly six decades.

In 1984, Cash met Sheri when she attempted to enter his club, and their connection deepened as they spent the night playing Pac-Man. Five years later, they welcomed their daughter, Cashen, into the world.

Amidst all his achievements and accolades, Cash always maintained that Cashen was the greatest blessing in his life. The two shared a special bond and became best friends, spending the majority of their time together.

“My dad was not only an amazing father to me, but also my best friend,” said Cashen Moore. “I don’t know what I am going to do without him by my side, but I know he will always be with me.”

Cash cherished spending quality time with his daughter, from shopping trips, to watching her gymnastics competitions, and skiing together in Aspen. However, his greatest joy came from being the best “Pop Pop” to his three grandchildren, Kaleesi, Cash, and Million.

To Cashen, her father was a hero who imparted invaluable business knowledge and equipped her to take over the family empire, continuing his legacy.

• “I truly am the luckiest girl in the world to be able to call him my dad,” said Cashen. “I don’t know how I could ever thank him for this life he has given to me and my children and I will do my very best to follow in his footsteps and continue his legacy.”

Cash will always be remembered as a determined and resilient individual, but those fortunate enough to know him experienced the immense kindness of his heart and his wonderful sense of humor.

• He was deeply involved in his community, whether it be through generous donations, like gifting a gym full of equipment to Freeport High School, or by purchasing championship rings for multiple schools.

“I want to say thank you to everyone that has reached out to me,” added Cashen. “My dad always knew he was popular, but I know he is even amazed at how much love people have shown since his passing. I am especially grateful to my mom for being there and helping me get through this process.”

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Wednesday, July 26 from 5-8pm at Emerald Coast Funeral Home in Fort Walton Beach, with the funeral following on Thursday.