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John Monroe Day, affectionately known as “Daddy John,” was born on November 12, 1925, in Clarksville, West Virginia, to Jeff Monroe Day and Willie Etta Day. John was the eldest of eight siblings. The family later relocated to Detroit, Michigan, where he completed his primary and high school education. With a deep sense of duty and patriotism, John enlisted in the Army Reserves toward the end of World War II. After his honorable discharge, he made the decision to join the United States Air Force, where he built a distinguished 25-year career, earning numerous accolades and commendations. During his time in the Air Force, John was stationed at Scott Air Force Base, where he met the love of his life, Gladys Bevineau. The two married and built a beautiful family together. From their union came four daughters—twins Diane and Dawn, Stephanie, and Chantell. From a previous marriage, Gladys had eight children whom John lovingly embraced as his own: Lumley, Betty Jean, Annette, Ralph Jr., Carol, Penny, Jimmy, and Jerry. John and Gladys shared 50 wonderful years together until her passing in November 2000. Their legacy of love continued through countless grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, too numerous to name but each deeply cherished. After retiring from the Air Force, John continued serving as a civil servant at Brooks Air Force Base, where he worked for another 15 years. San Antonio became home for John and Gladys, where they built a life rich in faith, family, and community. John embraced his retirement, filling his days with the company of friends in men’s groups, golf outings, power walking, and singing in his church choir. Blessed with a beautiful voice, he often styled his singing after Billy Eckstine. He was a man of many contrasts—at times a curmudgeon, at others the most tender-hearted soul one could meet. His keen intellect made him a conversationalist on just about any subject, and his impeccable sense of style was timeless. By the Grace of God, John lived an extraordinary 99 years—a life marked by resilience, dedication, love, and unwavering faith. He would undoubtedly say that the most important decision he ever made was surrendering his life to Jesus Christ! John is survived by his daughters, Diane, Stephanie, and Chantell, along with four of his stepchildren, Annette, Carol, Ralph, and Penny. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Priscilla, Ernestine, and Calvin, and a vast and adoring family. Rest in peace, Daddy John. You lived a full and blessed life. As Paul the Apostle reminds us in Romans 8:18, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Until we meet again, Daddy, our reunion will be sweet!

Tributes

John Monroe Day

November 12, 1925 - March 2, 2025