Days John Henry Moncrief, lovingly known as “Jazz,” passed away peacefully in his home on January 4, 2025. Jazz was born on March 21, 1948, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the union of Alberta, affectionately called Madea, Hurst Moncrief and John Moncrief Sr.

Jazz’s life was a testament reflecting love, resilience, and service. A 1968 graduate of North High School, Jazz went on to serve his country with valor in the United States Marines, completing two tours of duty in Vietnam. His dedication to his nation was matched by his unparalleled love for his family and the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures—playing pool, dancing, and cherishing time spent with loved ones.

The General Motors UAW Local 1714 retiree enjoyed a longstanding reputation of always being well-dressed and groomed. He obtained the moniker Jazz because of his ever- so- cool temperament, engaging personality and uncompromised swag.

Jazz is survived by his son, Jermaine Jazz Moncrief; bonus children, Corinthia Crump, Shaquanda Crump, Devon (Stephanie) Finley, Cottrell Atwood, Vince Atwood, along with his brother Richard (Vernell) Moncrief; sisters Molly Peavy and Luberta Tubbs. Jazz is also fondly remembered by his former wives, yet forever friends Dolly Williams-Perdue and Annie Moncrief, who are also the mothers of his sons.

His legacy will continue to radiate love, warmth and energy through his cherished grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, along with an abundance of family and friends whom he treasured.

As Jazz crossed the celestial sands into eternity, he was embraced by his parents Alberta and John Moncrief; sons Nathaniel Moncrief and Timothy Moncrief, his beloved life partner, Carolyn Crump; sister, Mary McCall and brothers Nathaniel Moncrief, John Moncrief Jr., Tom Moncrief, and Leon Moncrief, all who escorted him to the ancestral table to be seated among the elders.

Jazz’s memory will be honored by family and friends with services, including military honors on Saturday January 18, 2025, at Jaylex Center, 2210 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown. There will be a public viewing at 10:00 am and the celebration of life services will follow at 11:00 am, where Rev. Lewis W. Macklin II will be the celebrant.

Though Jazz is no longer with us in the flesh, his spirit will forever guide and inspire those he leaves behind. His life was a beacon of love, strength, and resilience, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. We are grateful for a life well lived; a legacy cherished by all who knew him. His wisdom, kindness, and love will live in our hearts forever.”

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the beloved family of Days “Jazz” John Henry Moncrief elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown OH 330.782.8500