Celebrating the life of
John Joseph Mokray
September 28, 1963 - January 14, 2016
John Joseph Mokray
John Joseph Mokray, 52, died Thursday, January 14, 2016 at St. Joseph’s Hospital. He was born September 28, 1963 in Passaic, New Jersey. John was a 1982 graduate of Benedictine Military School and a graduate of Armstrong State College, where he received his B.S. in Nursing. He was a communicant of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a Registered Nurse at St. Joseph’s Hospital. He was a member of Coastal Combative Jiu-Jitsu, Jarrells Boxing, the Habersham YMCA, and Howard’s Gym. He was certified in ASLS, ACLS, BLS, as well as numerous other certifications needed to work in critical care.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jason and Sarah Roughen Williams.
Surviving is his wife, Melanie Foss Mokray, two sisters, Theresa Gasser (Jeff) of North Augusta, SC, and Sally Seckinger (Mallie) of Savannah. Also surviving are two step-brothers, Chris Williams (Gaye), and Jay Williams, one step-sister, Elizabeth Williams, all of Richmond Hill, and several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.
Visitation will be 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., Sunday, January 17, 2016 with a Vigil Service at 3:30 p.m. at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 18, 2016 at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Bonaventure Cemetery.
Remembrances may be made to the John J. Mokray Memorial Scholarship Fund at Benedictine Military School, or the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer Center, c/o the John J. Mokray Memorial Fund at Sun Trust Bank.
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
I still think of you often and miss you tremendously. I have never stopped loving you.
- , ,
So sad to hear that he is gone and so young. Our condolences to his Family as our son was a school friend of his.
- Ciucevich, Savannah, GA
John will be missed by anyone who knew him. I have worked with John since 1992. He always called me Sister Hiers.( because I taught Sunday school) and I would say, hello Brother John. He was always willing to help the staff and take on extra just to help. Heaven has another wonderful person. My prayers are with his family.
- Theresa Hiers George, Savannah, GA
The world lost a great guy but, heaven gained one. So sorry I didn't get to chat with you one more time. I've always enjoyed working with you and I quote you all the time "I'm not here to make friends". We'll John like it or not you did. R.I.P brother. God speed.
- Mark Blankenship, land o lakes, Florida
Sally and Mallie, I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. I will keep all of you in my prayers daily. Family is everything.
- Mike Watson, Savannah, GA
I'll remember John for his intensity in everything he did, whether working with the cadets at BC, practicing ju jitsu, or working out at Memorial stadium on Saturday mornings. John led by example and he'll be missed! My prayers go out to his family.
- Bob Graham, Savannah, GA
Mokray we're already really missing you. Why is it always that the good die young? I've never met your nephews but as much as you talked about them I'm sure they are missing you pretty bad also. They certainly had a great role model in you, and some wonderful memories to carry with them in their hearts. I've told my boys stories about you and your nephews and they always get a good chuckle. My heart breaks today for your family's loss, but we all know God has a special spot for you already. You'll be forever in the hearts and memories of so many. RIP friend, until we meet again...
- Mandy Norris, Savannah, GA
Deepest Sympathy
- Jack Weathers, Savannah, GA
I have only been fortunate enough to know John J and Mel for a little over a year. Anyone who has ever met Mokray knows it only took him about 5 seconds to wrap around your heart and become one of the funniest, honest, kindest friends you could ever hope to have. The profession of nursing has lost a rare gift losing Nurse Mokray. I am deeply saddened losing my friend. I'm comforted knowing he's likely watching over all of us and being a protective source of love and light and probably getting the Angels into some mischief the Mokray way.
- Jade M Hachem, RN, Savannah, Ga
We were sorry and saddened to hear of John's passing. We knew him when he was a young boy....He will be remembered fondly by his friends and family....RIP Byron and Carol Sherwood
- Sherwood, Huber Hts., ohio
We were sorry and saddened to hear of John's passing. We knew him when he was a young boy....He will be remembered fondly by his friends and family....RIP Byron and Carol Sherwood
- Sherwood, Huber Hts., ohio
John was a great nurse and role model, I will not forget him. I came to know John while I was teaching at BC and he was working as the school nurse. He was a great role model for the Cadets and had a fabulous sense of humor; he never failed to help a student and influenced many with his integrity. He was also one of the nurses when my mother was recovering from surgery at St. Joe's. He will be sorely missed.
- Jane Dolan, Savannah, GA
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time
- Beth Feltovic Toomer, Thunderbolt, Ga
Rest in peace my friend.
- Steve Feltovic, Thunderbolt, Ga.
Dear Sallie, Teresa and Melanie, Bill and I are so very sorry about the death of Johnny. He was such a vibrant person and Bill always had such good things to say about the way he conducted himself at the hospital. I know he will be missed so much by y'all and so many others. Please accept our sincere condolences. Love, Nancy and Bill
- Nancy and Bill, SAVANNAH, GA
To the family of John J. Monday, John will be missed by many and he is well loved. Sending sincere condolences to all of you, to know him was to love him. SIP my friend
- Sandra Williams, Sylvania, Ga
Melanie, We are deeply sorry for your loss and have you in our thoughts and prayers.
- Chris Hammond, Pooler, Ga
Melanie my heart is broken for you and John's family. I take comfort though that John is out of pain, healed and watching over us all from above. John's inner strength, and grace was an inspiration to me. I was blessed to know he was my friend. Hugs and prayers for you and John's family.
- Ansley Monaghan, Savannah, GA
So very, very sad. Please know I am praying for John, his family, Melanie, and all his STJ family. He was a treasure in so many ways. God speed, John.
- Jo Bush, Baltimore, MD
We pray for you as you grieve the earthy loss of John. He was a special gift to all of us that knew him. His skills saved many lives in his profession as a nurse. He will be missed for so many reasons. His memory will be treasured for his dedication to St Joseph's/Cander and those he touched and worked with
- Agnes, Savannah, Ga
We pray for you as you grieve the earthy loss of John. He was a special gift to all of us that knew him. His skills saved many lives in his profession as a nurse. He will be missed for so many reasons. His memory will be treasured for his dedication to St Joseph's/Cander and those he touched and worked with
- Agnes, Savannah, Ga
Melanie, Sally, Theresa and Family, I am so sorry to hear about John. John was a sweet and caring person. May the memories of him help to comfort you. God bless all of you. You are in my prayers. Love, Aunt Betty
- Betty Lee, Savannah, Ga
John worked in our Neuro unit several times. He made the shift go faster with his stories of his beloved nieces, nephews and dog. My heart goes out to Melanie and John's family.
- Barbara Will, Pooler, GA
John was the best of peace,hope and love. It have known and thought fondly of him for a long time. I am sure he if showing these traits to all of the other angels in heaven. He will be missed by many. Peace to all his family and fellow nurses.
- Sherry Danello, Savannah, Georgia
we miss your laughter and your stories. It was a great pleasure to have known such a marvelous person. He will truly be missed but always remembered. God Bless
- Pat Helm, savannah, ga
Telling us what to do one minute and laughing with us the next. All the while your Mom was yelling in the background, "John leave the girls alone. They're fine!" Growing up in the Mokray/Williams house was a huge part of my life. John Mokray - definitely my other brother from another mother. Your big voice and gentle heart will be missed.
- Sam Stone Douberly, Savannah, Ga
I worked with John in CCU at St. Joes. He was an amazing person to be with. A very positive soul to have touch your life. He will be missed.
- Jennifer , Ellabell , G.A.
I worked with John on PCU at St. Joseph's Hospital probably 30 years ago and then he was at BC working when my 2 older sons were there. John kept his eye on my sons at BC because he was an old friend. I have not seen John in many years but I remember him him as a person who was strong,funny,smart with a big heart.I wish his family the best and my heart goes out to you. Margo Harrison,Savannah Ga
- Margo Doyle Harrison, Savannah, Ga
Not everyone who met John knew that they were in the presence of greatness. John was a man of great integrity, compassion, humor.. the list is truly endless. Emily and I were deeply saddened by the news but thankful that he is with the Lord. Our thoughts and prayers are with Melanie and all his family and friends.
- Alex and Emily Andone, Tampa, FL
John was always entertaining me with many philosophical conversations over the years about work, life, his nephews, his dog, & co-workers ;) Because I was his boss he never called me anything but Ms. Freeland. He was a true fighter and gave everything his all! His patients & St. Joseph's hospital all loved him and will never forget him! Our hearts are broken but faith is strong & we know God has got this! Prayers to all John's family, Melanie and the multitudes he touched!
- Carey Freeland, Bluffton, SC
John will surely be missed. One of the nicest people you could ever meet. Never failed to call me "sir" as I was older. Missed seeing him at work.
- Bobby VanBrackle, Richmond Hill, Georgia
John J. Mokray....that's what I always called you.....so enjoyed your stories of your nephews...what a hoot listening to you...you loved them and family dearly...and your dog....you will be missed...my sincere condolences to the family and many friends.RIP
- Susie Russell, Savannah, Ga
RIP Mokray...you will be missed
- Brenda Wyatt, Savannah, Ga
I am so sorry to hear about John. Most memories I have from grade school through high school involve John. I have so many great stories, he was an awesome person from the beginning. My heart and prayers are with you Melanie, Theresa, Sally, Chris, Jay, and Elizabeth. Jim
- Jim Deering, Niceville, FL
I am so sorry for your loss. John was quite a guy. He was my mothers nurse after her heart attach at St. Josephs and he was amazing! God Bless him.
- Nancy Manucy Lawson, Savannah, Ga
Theresa, So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
- Angela Aliffi Brisendine, Screven, ga
Melanie, Theresa, Sally and family, I am so sorry to hear about John. He was a sweet person. I really appreciate how he took care of Jason while he was sick himself. May God bless all of you and give you comfort during this sad time. Aunt Betty
- Betty Lee, Savannah, Ga
I worked with John at St Joseph's and at Candler's Cardiac Rehab for years. There never was a dull moment with John around. He always had a come back comment. I really enjoyed working with him. I am saddened to hear of John's passing,may he rest in peace. My condolences to the Mokray family.
- Mary Curry, Woodbridge, VA , VA
My heart is sad to hear of the passing of John. I pray peace be with his family.
- Liz Pascual, Savannah, Ga
To John's Family: My Daddy, Thomas Smith, had open-heart surgery in September, 2015. John was one of his nurses in CCU at St. Joseph's. He was one of the best nurses Daddy had; he was patient and stern, and he was truly a gifted nurse. May God give you all comfort and peace during this sad time. Rachel Smith Beckworth
- Thomas Richard Smith Family, Ellabell, GA
What a memorable man John was! He has definitely impacted us all, without a doubt. May God comfort Melanie, Theresa, Sally, and all the family during this time. John was blessed to have you all and good friends in his lifetime. I feel truly blessed, as well, to have special memories of him that is hard to forget.
- Katie Muller Morgan, Sylvania, GA
John was a remarkable person and man! One can only imagine the conversations along with laughter going on in heaven today between him and Papa and your mother in the middle! We hope you are finding comfort in the love you shared and all of the memories.
- Nita & Albert Roughen, Eatonton, Ga
may heart goes out to johns family bubby was a wonderful man loved by all
- ann leonard ribock, augusta , ga
A better man you will not find. I will miss JJ McCray
- Cynthia, savannah, ga
I still think of you often and miss you tremendously. I have never stopped loving you.
- , ,
So sad to hear that he is gone and so young. Our condolences to his Family as our son was a school friend of his.
- Ciucevich, Savannah, GA
John will be missed by anyone who knew him. I have worked with John since 1992. He always called me Sister Hiers.( because I taught Sunday school) and I would say, hello Brother John. He was always willing to help the staff and take on extra just to help. Heaven has another wonderful person. My prayers are with his family.
- Theresa Hiers George, Savannah, GA
The world lost a great guy but, heaven gained one. So sorry I didn't get to chat with you one more time. I've always enjoyed working with you and I quote you all the time "I'm not here to make friends". We'll John like it or not you did. R.I.P brother. God speed.
- Mark Blankenship, land o lakes, Florida
Sally and Mallie, I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. I will keep all of you in my prayers daily. Family is everything.
- Mike Watson, Savannah, GA
I'll remember John for his intensity in everything he did, whether working with the cadets at BC, practicing ju jitsu, or working out at Memorial stadium on Saturday mornings. John led by example and he'll be missed! My prayers go out to his family.
- Bob Graham, Savannah, GA
Mokray we're already really missing you. Why is it always that the good die young? I've never met your nephews but as much as you talked about them I'm sure they are missing you pretty bad also. They certainly had a great role model in you, and some wonderful memories to carry with them in their hearts. I've told my boys stories about you and your nephews and they always get a good chuckle. My heart breaks today for your family's loss, but we all know God has a special spot for you already. You'll be forever in the hearts and memories of so many. RIP friend, until we meet again...
- Mandy Norris, Savannah, GA
Deepest Sympathy
- Jack Weathers, Savannah, GA
I have only been fortunate enough to know John J and Mel for a little over a year. Anyone who has ever met Mokray knows it only took him about 5 seconds to wrap around your heart and become one of the funniest, honest, kindest friends you could ever hope to have. The profession of nursing has lost a rare gift losing Nurse Mokray. I am deeply saddened losing my friend. I'm comforted knowing he's likely watching over all of us and being a protective source of love and light and probably getting the Angels into some mischief the Mokray way.
- Jade M Hachem, RN, Savannah, Ga
We were sorry and saddened to hear of John's passing. We knew him when he was a young boy....He will be remembered fondly by his friends and family....RIP Byron and Carol Sherwood
- Sherwood, Huber Hts., ohio
We were sorry and saddened to hear of John's passing. We knew him when he was a young boy....He will be remembered fondly by his friends and family....RIP Byron and Carol Sherwood
- Sherwood, Huber Hts., ohio
John was a great nurse and role model, I will not forget him. I came to know John while I was teaching at BC and he was working as the school nurse. He was a great role model for the Cadets and had a fabulous sense of humor; he never failed to help a student and influenced many with his integrity. He was also one of the nurses when my mother was recovering from surgery at St. Joe's. He will be sorely missed.
- Jane Dolan, Savannah, GA
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time
- Beth Feltovic Toomer, Thunderbolt, Ga
Rest in peace my friend.
- Steve Feltovic, Thunderbolt, Ga.
Dear Sallie, Teresa and Melanie, Bill and I are so very sorry about the death of Johnny. He was such a vibrant person and Bill always had such good things to say about the way he conducted himself at the hospital. I know he will be missed so much by y'all and so many others. Please accept our sincere condolences. Love, Nancy and Bill
- Nancy and Bill, SAVANNAH, GA
To the family of John J. Monday, John will be missed by many and he is well loved. Sending sincere condolences to all of you, to know him was to love him. SIP my friend
- Sandra Williams, Sylvania, Ga
Melanie, We are deeply sorry for your loss and have you in our thoughts and prayers.
- Chris Hammond, Pooler, Ga
Melanie my heart is broken for you and John's family. I take comfort though that John is out of pain, healed and watching over us all from above. John's inner strength, and grace was an inspiration to me. I was blessed to know he was my friend. Hugs and prayers for you and John's family.
- Ansley Monaghan, Savannah, GA
So very, very sad. Please know I am praying for John, his family, Melanie, and all his STJ family. He was a treasure in so many ways. God speed, John.
- Jo Bush, Baltimore, MD
We pray for you as you grieve the earthy loss of John. He was a special gift to all of us that knew him. His skills saved many lives in his profession as a nurse. He will be missed for so many reasons. His memory will be treasured for his dedication to St Joseph's/Cander and those he touched and worked with
- Agnes, Savannah, Ga
We pray for you as you grieve the earthy loss of John. He was a special gift to all of us that knew him. His skills saved many lives in his profession as a nurse. He will be missed for so many reasons. His memory will be treasured for his dedication to St Joseph's/Cander and those he touched and worked with
- Agnes, Savannah, Ga
Melanie, Sally, Theresa and Family, I am so sorry to hear about John. John was a sweet and caring person. May the memories of him help to comfort you. God bless all of you. You are in my prayers. Love, Aunt Betty
- Betty Lee, Savannah, Ga
John worked in our Neuro unit several times. He made the shift go faster with his stories of his beloved nieces, nephews and dog. My heart goes out to Melanie and John's family.
- Barbara Will, Pooler, GA
John was the best of peace,hope and love. It have known and thought fondly of him for a long time. I am sure he if showing these traits to all of the other angels in heaven. He will be missed by many. Peace to all his family and fellow nurses.
- Sherry Danello, Savannah, Georgia
we miss your laughter and your stories. It was a great pleasure to have known such a marvelous person. He will truly be missed but always remembered. God Bless
- Pat Helm, savannah, ga
Telling us what to do one minute and laughing with us the next. All the while your Mom was yelling in the background, "John leave the girls alone. They're fine!" Growing up in the Mokray/Williams house was a huge part of my life. John Mokray - definitely my other brother from another mother. Your big voice and gentle heart will be missed.
- Sam Stone Douberly, Savannah, Ga
I worked with John in CCU at St. Joes. He was an amazing person to be with. A very positive soul to have touch your life. He will be missed.
- Jennifer , Ellabell , G.A.
I worked with John on PCU at St. Joseph's Hospital probably 30 years ago and then he was at BC working when my 2 older sons were there. John kept his eye on my sons at BC because he was an old friend. I have not seen John in many years but I remember him him as a person who was strong,funny,smart with a big heart.I wish his family the best and my heart goes out to you. Margo Harrison,Savannah Ga
- Margo Doyle Harrison, Savannah, Ga
Not everyone who met John knew that they were in the presence of greatness. John was a man of great integrity, compassion, humor.. the list is truly endless. Emily and I were deeply saddened by the news but thankful that he is with the Lord. Our thoughts and prayers are with Melanie and all his family and friends.
- Alex and Emily Andone, Tampa, FL
John was always entertaining me with many philosophical conversations over the years about work, life, his nephews, his dog, & co-workers ;) Because I was his boss he never called me anything but Ms. Freeland. He was a true fighter and gave everything his all! His patients & St. Joseph's hospital all loved him and will never forget him! Our hearts are broken but faith is strong & we know God has got this! Prayers to all John's family, Melanie and the multitudes he touched!
- Carey Freeland, Bluffton, SC
John will surely be missed. One of the nicest people you could ever meet. Never failed to call me "sir" as I was older. Missed seeing him at work.
- Bobby VanBrackle, Richmond Hill, Georgia
John J. Mokray....that's what I always called you.....so enjoyed your stories of your nephews...what a hoot listening to you...you loved them and family dearly...and your dog....you will be missed...my sincere condolences to the family and many friends.RIP
- Susie Russell, Savannah, Ga
RIP Mokray...you will be missed
- Brenda Wyatt, Savannah, Ga
I am so sorry to hear about John. Most memories I have from grade school through high school involve John. I have so many great stories, he was an awesome person from the beginning. My heart and prayers are with you Melanie, Theresa, Sally, Chris, Jay, and Elizabeth. Jim
- Jim Deering, Niceville, FL
I am so sorry for your loss. John was quite a guy. He was my mothers nurse after her heart attach at St. Josephs and he was amazing! God Bless him.
- Nancy Manucy Lawson, Savannah, Ga
Theresa, So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
- Angela Aliffi Brisendine, Screven, ga
Melanie, Theresa, Sally and family, I am so sorry to hear about John. He was a sweet person. I really appreciate how he took care of Jason while he was sick himself. May God bless all of you and give you comfort during this sad time. Aunt Betty
- Betty Lee, Savannah, Ga
I worked with John at St Joseph's and at Candler's Cardiac Rehab for years. There never was a dull moment with John around. He always had a come back comment. I really enjoyed working with him. I am saddened to hear of John's passing,may he rest in peace. My condolences to the Mokray family.
- Mary Curry, Woodbridge, VA , VA
My heart is sad to hear of the passing of John. I pray peace be with his family.
- Liz Pascual, Savannah, Ga
To John's Family: My Daddy, Thomas Smith, had open-heart surgery in September, 2015. John was one of his nurses in CCU at St. Joseph's. He was one of the best nurses Daddy had; he was patient and stern, and he was truly a gifted nurse. May God give you all comfort and peace during this sad time. Rachel Smith Beckworth
- Thomas Richard Smith Family, Ellabell, GA
What a memorable man John was! He has definitely impacted us all, without a doubt. May God comfort Melanie, Theresa, Sally, and all the family during this time. John was blessed to have you all and good friends in his lifetime. I feel truly blessed, as well, to have special memories of him that is hard to forget.
- Katie Muller Morgan, Sylvania, GA
John was a remarkable person and man! One can only imagine the conversations along with laughter going on in heaven today between him and Papa and your mother in the middle! We hope you are finding comfort in the love you shared and all of the memories.
- Nita & Albert Roughen, Eatonton, Ga
may heart goes out to johns family bubby was a wonderful man loved by all
- ann leonard ribock, augusta , ga
A better man you will not find. I will miss JJ McCray
- Cynthia, savannah, ga
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200

