Ralph MonCrief

August 8, 1946 - January 30, 2021

Ralph T. MonCrief, 74 of Gardendale, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2021. Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. He served two tours in Vietnam and completed his service as a Commanding Officer in the Marine Barracks in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He received a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Four Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, and Presidential Unit Citation. He completed Tracked Vehicle and Automotive Mechanic Schools while in service. This fostered his love for working on cars and large equipment. He was the proud owner of American Truck Sales and spent much of his free time building and restoring antique cars. Ralph built an enormous family of friends through his service to his country and his love of old cars. He loved the Lord and although he had not been able to attend church in person for some time, he followed Church of the Highlands online every Sunday. He had a generous heart and was full of joy. He endured much and always overcame with a kind spirit. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tellis and Maria MonCrief. Survivors include his loving wife of 27 years, Cathy; daughter, April (Rick) Nail; siblings Mary Martin, Patsy (Cliff) Capps, and Tony (Vicki) MonCrief; granddaughter, Alaina Nail; nephew, Alex (Brooke) Smith, and niece, Toni Branch; great nieces Allie, Kensli, and Kassi, and great nephews Kendon and Karson. Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at Gardendale Heritage Funeral Home beginning at 11AM with Memorial Service at 12PM in the Chapel. Burial to follow in Jefferson Memorial Gardens, Trussville. Pastor Andy Heis officiating. Music provided by Tim Gann. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any contribution be made to St. Jude Research Hospital or Wounded Warrior Project in Ralph’s memory.