Johnny W. Milnes

Johnny W. Milnes, 65, was born in Moberly Missouri, January 7, 1959, the first of five children born to John and Joan (Manning) Milnes. He departed this world, July 20, 2024 at his home in Moberly, Missouri.

From a young age Johnny had a servant’s heart, which led him to become licensed to the Gospel Ministry in July of 1974 at the age of 15. He was ordained in June of 1979 and his ministry continued for fifty years, until his passing.

Johnny was a 1977 graduate of Moberly Senior High where he was involved in many extra-curricular activities. Johnny continued to excel in education, obtaining multiple degrees, including his Associate Degree in General Education from Moberly Junior College in 1979, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Southwest Baptist College in June of 1981, his Missouri Teaching Certification in Social Studies from Lincoln University in May of 1985, and completing his education as a Licensed Registered Nurse after earning his Associate Degree in Nursing at Moberly Junior College in May of 1991.

Johnny was an extremely kind person who never knew a stranger and often extended a helping hand to others in need.  He cared deeply for the Moberly Community, serving in several capacities, most recently as Randolph County Deputy Coroner for three years, and Board President for the Randolph County Ambulance District. He was excited for the upcoming August Election and was running as a Republican Candidate for the Randolph County Coroner. Johnny also served as a Deputy of the Randolph County Sheriff's Department for two years, where he received recognition due to being wounded in the line of duty during an attempted jail break. Johnny spent the majority of his career as a registered nurse. Over his thirty-five year nursing tenure, he served many communities, working in numerous hospitals, nursing homes and State Schools. Throughout his career, he made a positive impact on the lives of many people.

Outside of Johnny’s personal career, he enjoyed gardening, attending community events, extensive family genealogy, square dancing with family and friends, and being a “regular” at the local Goodwill. He was a pianist who played beautifully, even by ear, and was often heard playing old gospel hymns and leading worship services at church. Johnny also forged close relationships with extended family members and friends whom he loved dearly.

Johnny was a loyal family man who cherished his relationships with his younger siblings and parents. He was ecstatic when he became a father in March of 1997 and was later blessed with two grandchildren who were his “pride and joy”. Johnny was overjoyed to learn of a third grandbaby arriving later this year.

Johnny was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, George and Rosalie Manning, and Lena Manning, paternal grandparents, John,Sr. and  Goldie Milnes, and Sarah Milnes, brother-in-law Rob Chase, and son-in-law Ben Loftin.

Johnny is survived by his daughter Kathrine “Katie” Deere and husband Jon, grandchildren Jameson and Audrey Loftin, an unborn grandchild, parents John and Joan Milnes, brother Jerry Milnes and wife Joyce, sisters Debbie Magers and husband David, Michelle Chapman and husband Scott, and sister Kristi Chase, along with many nieces, nephews, friends and other loved ones.

Although he’ll be sorely missed, we feel comfort in knowing that Johnny has heard, “job well done, my good and faithful servant,” as he entered through the gates of Heaven.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Camp Hickory Hill for Diabetes Education in Columbia, MO, where Johnny spent much time growing up.

Words of comfort and support were shared with the family at a visitation held at the Cater Funeral Home.  Funeral services honoring and celebrating Johnny’s were held in the Cater Funeral Home Chapel.  Committal prayer and burial took place at the Oakland Cemetery.