Obituary of John Dewayne Moncrief

John Dewayne Moncrief was born in Licking, MO on July 1, 1953 to Robert & Allene Moncrief. He passed away on April 9, 2020. Dewayne married Glenda Gorman on September 26, 1975 in Licking, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Ricky. He is survived by son Matt (Rachel) of Salem, MO, daughter Mandy (Darin Welch) of Rolla; grandchildren Dawson, Logan, Brayden, Jaxin, and Naomi; brothers Bobby (Kathy), Freddie (Rickie), Ronnie (Judy), Kenny (Sherry) and Neal (Lori) of Licking, MO. Dewayne loved being outside, planting landscape beds and using his green thumb to grow any and everything. He never turned down the offer to help a friend or family member in need. If there was a job that needed doing, he was all about getting it done. He loved the Lord, dedicating much of his adult life to various ministries that ranged from driving the church bus, to puppets, to serving as a deacon. He loved his family with passion, and his kids especially were his pride and joy. Dewayne’s daughter, Mandy, loved her daddy with full expression, and he in return - in joy and sorrow - never stopped holding her hand. Dewayne’s son, Matt, would tell you that his dad was his best friend, and they always had a project (or a little trouble) to get into together. With his grandkids (Dewayne also being a kid at heart) he had a way of knowing how to engage with each of them. From towel-whipping to noogies, he taught them how to master every game. The Dewayne Moncrief smile could light up a room, and he had a personality that was just as infectious. Though he will be dearly missed, he lived a life that is worth the fullest distinction of being deemed the best father, grandfather and friend. Pallbearers were son Matt Moncrief, son-in-law Darin Welch, brother-in-law Steve Gorman, and grandsons Dawson Welch, Logan Welch, Brayden Moncrief, and Jaxin Welch Due to the unusual circumstances with COVID -19, private services for immediate family were held Monday, April 13 at 3:30 p.m. at Boone Creek Cemetery with Bro. John Smith officiating. Private visitation was held prior from 1-3 p.m. at Fox Funeral Home in Licking, MO. Until a memorial service can be arranged, friends and loved ones are asked to keep his family in their thoughts and prayers. In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be sent to Freeway Ministries, PO Box 8655, Springfield, MO 65801.