John Francis Conway

John Francis Conway, born November 18, 1938, in Baltimore, Maryland, passed away January 12, 2026, in Salem, Missouri, at the age of eighty-seven years. John was the son of Francis Patrick and Ruth Elizabeth (Brown) Conway. John enlisted into the United States Marine Corp and served his country faithfully for four years. He then enlisted into the United States Air Force and served faithfully and honorably for eight years. During his time in the military, he earned several decorations, medals, badges, and awards. John met his sweetheart, Joan Ann Renouf, while roller skating in Illinois. The two fell in love and on December 19, 1971, they united in marriage. Together they shared six beloved children. John and Joan were blessed with fifty-four years of marriage, building a strong bond and creating lasting memories. John worked as an instructor for computer maintenance with the telephone company in North Lake, Illinois for several years. He later changed careers, furthered his education, and became a Registered Nurse. He worked as a nurse for thirty-seven years before retiring at the age of seventy-seven years. John deeply loved his family and treasured the time they spent together. His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his world. He enjoyed roller skating, woodworking, and mowing the lawn. He loved to write poems and often wrote songs that he would sing. John was a devoted Seventh Day Adventist for fifty-four years. He was a member of the Salem Seventh Day Adventist Church for last nine years. John and Joan were baptized together the day before their wedding. His faith was important to him; he was an active member of the church and served as an elder. Those left behind to cherish his memory include his loving wife: Joan Conway of Salem, MO; children: Beryl Paffrath and wife Kathy of Salem, MO, April Foulks of Tennessee, Tracy Conway of Salem, MO, Jennifer Ortega of Salem, MO, John A. Conway and fiancé Katie of Rhode Island, and Michael Conway and wife Corina of Salem, MO; sister: June Koontz of Maryland; grandchildren: Trishana, Benjamin, Elias, Jessica, Jamie, Rodney, Olivia, Zoe, John Michael, Aubrey, Nicky, Beth Ann, and Cameron; foster child: Angela; several great-grandchildren; other relatives and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his parents: Francis and Ruth (Brown) Conway and brother-in-law: Richard Koontz. John was devoted to his family, his country, and the Lord. He leaves a lasting legacy built on the light of hope, a spirit of faith, and a home built on love. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. Funeral Services were held January 16, 2026, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Craig Wiles officiating. Serving as Pallbearers were Beryl Paffrath, Michael Conway, John A. Conway, Darrel Barton, Richard Lettman, Benjamin Ortega, and Elias Ortega. Burial with Military Honors was held in the Fort Leonard Wood Veterans Cemetery. The Family was served by Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Leave the family a condolence on his tribute page at www.wilsonmortuary.com

John Francis Conway

November 18, 1938 - January 12, 2026