Willie Richard Moncrief, Sr.

Obituary For Willie Richard Moncrief, Sr.

Willie Richard Moncrief Sr. was born September 28, 1943, in Siluria, AL to Alberta Hurst-Moncrief and John Edward Moncrief. The family relocated to Youngstown, OH in April1944. On January 17, 2025, he answered God’s call and transitioned from the shores of this earthly life in the presence of Vernell, his loving wife of 57 years, at the Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Temple, TX.

Willie's life was a testament to hard work and resilience. Often referred to as Richard or Big Rich, he worked for the City of Youngstown’s Park & Recreation Department. He spent many years at Valley Vulcan Mold in Hubbard, until retirement. His strong work ethic and dependable nature garnered the utmost respect from his peers. Despite his straightforward demeanor, he possessed an undeniable charm and warmth that drew people to him.

Richard enjoyed having a good time and made sure everyone around him did also and would not hesitate to fire up the grill, when he deemed it was time to “burn”. Richard loved music and would sometimes sing along when he desired. He was gentle, strong and without a doubt a fighter. With God’s grace and mercy, along with his will and determination enabled him to persevere through the many trials and tribulations he encountered during his days on earth.

Above all, Willie was a family man. He embraced his roles as a father, brother, cousin, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle with open arms. In some cases, he even assumed the role of “Uncle Daddy!” He gave respect to all and in return he expected the same. His family cherished his many sayings, none so beloved as, "have no fear, Moncrief is here," a phrase that brought comfort and assurance to those around him.

On September 30, 1967, he was united in holy matrimony to the former Vernell Harden. Their enduring love would produce several generations strengthening the Moncrief lineage. From their union, three children were born. Laura Rochelle Moncrief of Youngstown, Yalonda (Russell) Marie Moncrief-Henry of Grand Rapids, MI and Willie (Felicia) Richard Moncrief II of Killeen, TX.

Richard was a loving, kind man and would go to extreme lengths to help those in need. Rich imparted his wisdom not only through his words but through the lessons of life he demonstrated, offering guidance, a stern look when necessary, and unwavering support. In October of 2022, Richard and Vernell relocated to Killeen.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife Vernell, his three children, eleven grandchildren Carlos, Russell Lee, Brandon, Bryan, Antione, Sojourner Truth, Anthony, Micheal, Abram, Supreme, Y’se, and Willie III.

Willie’s legacy will be sustained by his ten great-grandchildren, sisters Mollie Peavy of Youngstown and Luberta Tubbs of Girard along with an abundance of nephews, nieces, cousins. He also enjoyed precious moments and memories with his sister-in laws Judy, Verneice, Ernestine, Laura-Ann, Roberta and brother-in laws Robin, Richard and Walter.

Now among the elders, as he crossed the celestial sands, Rich was embraced by his parents, sister Mary “Stella” Alice McCall, brothers John Moncrief, Nathaniel Moncrief, Thomas Moncrief, Leon Moncrief, Days “Jazz” Moncrief, and brothers-in-law Thomas Tubbs and Charles Peavy, all who preceded him into eternity. Willie’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, and he will be remembered for the respect he commanded and generously gave to those who earned it.

The life of Willie will be honored on Tuesday January 28, 2025, at Triedstone Missionary Baptist Church, 2045 Jacobs Road, Youngstown, with a public viewing at 10:00am. The Celebration of Life Service will begin at 11am with Rev. Sylvia Jennings officiating and Rev. Willie R. Moncrief II, his son, as the eulogist.

After the committal ceremony, Richard will be laid to rest at Belmont Park Cemetery. As we come together to honor him, let us remember the joy he brought into the lives of many. His memory will forever remain a guiding light to all who were fortunate enough to know him. Richard leaves an inheritance for his family which will forever honor his memory and the enduring values he instilled in them.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the beloved family Willie Richard Moncrief Sr. 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