Johnnie "John" Wayne Lay

Johnnie “John” Wayne Lay was born on August 20, 1952 in St. Louis, Missouri to John Hiley and Virgia Bernice (Rosa) Lay. He grew up in the Jadwin area and graduated from Salem High School with the class of 1970. John was united in marriage to Cindy Gross on June 23, 1973 and to this union was blessed with one daughter, Jennifer. He later married Faye Melear on September 30, 1991 and to this union blessed with one son, Dustin. John was a dedicated father and taught his children the value of hard work. John was a hard worker and worked as a laborer with Floyd Charcoal, Oreo and Botta Concrete Company in St. Louis, Red Path Mines, and Doe Run. In his spare time, he loved to fish at the Current River, Montauk, and at his lake. John liked spending time on the river floating and in the woods hunting. He enjoyed time with his friends, especially Ronnie Ruppel who was like a brother to him. Most important to John was his family, he cherished the time spent with his children and treasured the memories made with his grandchildren. John knew his way around the kitchen and made the best biscuits and gravy, BBQ pork steak, and homemade pizza. John departed this life on October 14, 2021 in St. Louis, Missouri at the age of sixty-nine years. He leaves behind to cherish his memories, his children: Jennifer Lipscomb and husband Cory of Bridgeton, MO and Dustin Lay and wife Briana of Salem, MO; grandchildren: Carter Lipscomb, Makenna Lay, and Lola Lay; brother-in-law: Donnie James of Tyrone, MO; ex-wives and dear friends: Cindy Gross Lay and Faye Melear; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceding him in death, parents: John and Virgia Bernice Lay; and sisters: Wanda Hudson Crawford and Beverly James; and infant sister: Barbara Jean Lay. John was a man of faith; he touched the lives of many with his contagious smile and generosity. He was strong and tough but always kind. John will be forever missed by all who knew and loved him. Funeral Services for Johnnie “John” Wayne Lay were held Wednesday, October 20, 2021 in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Doug Givens officiating. Song selections played were “Like A Rock”, “My Old Man”, “The Angel Band”, and “When I Get Where I’m Going”. Serving as Pallbearers were Dustin Lay, Rick Crane, Randy Gross, Ronnie Ruppel, Doug Givens, and Chuck Croxton. Honorary Pallbearer was Carter Layne Lipscomb. Burial was in the Greeley Cemetery, Bunker, Missouri. The Family was served by Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of John Lay and left at Wilson Mortuary. Online Condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Johnnie "John" Wayne Lay

August 20, 1952 - October 14, 2021