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A Tribute to Kingsley Moody

Our journey began in 2013, when I met Kingsley Moody.

At my first toastmasters club I attended, Kingsley was always present. In fact, my fondest memory of him was when only 3 people turned up at the meeting however, unfazed, Kingsley ran the meeting regardless. His outstanding dedication and commitment to Toastmasters continues to inspire me today.

Later, Kingsley would attend our newly formed Toastmaster's club and support us with quality guidance and mentorship for the formation of both the MCBC TOASTMASTERS CLUB in 2014 (for those aged above 18), as well as our current MC UTH Gavel Club in 2017 (for those aged 11-17 years).

Kingsley Moody was very humble and kind man. I am forever grateful for Kingsley coming into my life, and feel honored too. 

Take part in Kingsley Moody's legacy by joining us, as we grow in confidence and succeed together. 

Warren Christie - Founder of MCBC Toastmaster Club & MC UTH Gavel Club

One of the most beautiful moments when we were celebrating 1 year of starting MCBC Toastmasters Club, we can see Kingsley Moody in action

"Some more beautiful memories of Kingsley Moody

Warren Christie

Thanks Kingsley Moody for all your dedication and hard work and your help to start two of our clubs MCBC Toastmasters Club and MC UTH Gavel Club. You will always be remembered and honored. 

Warren Christie

Yvette Carol

ACS

Kingsley was a rare individual. Even his name was rare. Have you ever met a Kingsley? I never have and I don't expect I ever will again. It was Kingsley's wife who first joined Toastmasters, and she encouraged her husband to join because he was introverted and she thought it would help him with his people skills. When he first started, Bruce Powell (the co-founder of One Hour Toastmasters) said Kingsley was incredibly shy. But, through his involvement in various clubs, his confidence and speaking ability grew exponentially. Bruce said, "It made the world of difference to him." Kingsley learned how to engage and be engaging.

One of the last speeches I saw him give was a story about a taxi driver in New York. The audience was hushed. He held us spellbound. I still remember every detail of that story to this day. 

Kingsley served One Hour Toastmasters as Treasurer for many years. It was his nature to serve. He could be relied upon as a pillar of our club. A number of years ago, I decided to quit Toastmasters. They gave me a lovely farewell. The next morning, Kingsley rang. Did I know I was two speeches away from reaching silver (the old system)? Would I like to come back and give a couple of educational speeches to get my silver? Sure, I said.

I ended up rejoining and a short time later, we learned Kingsley was sick. It was hard to lose him. We will always miss him at One Hour.

James Hippolite, DTM

Past District Director (2023-2024)

Kingsley was my mentor.  We didn’t have an official arrangement, but I consider him as one of my early, formative mentors.

 

When Manukau City Baptist Church Toastmasters Club was in formation (July-September 2015), Kingsley was one of our Club Sponsors.  As a weekly, Saturday club, he would diligently turn up and show us the Toastmasters way.  When written instructions were vague or confusing, Kingsley was invaluable in deciphering the meaning of District Procedures.  At our Chartering (October 2015), Kingsley transitioned from Club Sponsor to Club Mentor, and stuck around.  To that end, I thought it was strange he couldn’t join our club, but realize now the immeasurable benefit he bestowed upon us.  After our first part-year ended in June 2016, we have been President’s Distinguished every single year since.  This was due, in no small part, on the inculcation of the Toastmasters Values embodied by Kingsley right from the start.

 

It wasn’t until years later, that I realized Kingsley had just rotated off his term as District Director for District 72 (all of New Zealand) in 2014-2015.  This meant he still had obligations as Immediate Past District Director, so he really was dedicated to nurturing not just our fledgling club, but the entire country.  He was a powerhouse.  I visited him in his hospital bed shortly before his passing on November 19, 2020.  He was still alert, but remarkably serene.  His memorial by Toastmasters on December 5th was a fitting tribute.

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Awaiting More Tributes for Kingsley Moody 

The primary purpose of a Gavel Club is to help its members improve their communication and leadership skills in a supportive and structured environment, much like a standard Toastmasters club. Members, often referred to as "Gaveliers," learn by practicing public speaking, giving and receiving constructive feedback, and taking on leadership roles within the club.

Beyond the ordinary

Kingsley Moody (Toastmasters International): Kingsley Moody was a notable figure in Toastmasters International, specifically in District 112 (New Zealand North). A memorial service was held for Kingsley Moody DTM PDDG (Distinguished Toastmaster, Past District Director General), and there is an award named the "Kingsley Moody Award for Club Public Relations" in their honor. This indicates a significant contribution to the organization.