John Greenwood

(From Parker Mortuary)

John W. Greenwood started life March 23rd 1940. Born to Mildred and LeRoy as the 5th in the line of 6 siblings. John lived a childhood outdoors and developed a deep love of nature he would never forget. Starting young he’d already set a reputation for hard work and a drive to improve life for himself and his community. Taking up a job at age 12 as a car hop for Mac’s Drive-in, John never had a dull day since. 

Working through his schooling years as an usher for the Paramount Theater and Kresge’s Five and Dime Store. Industries he was employed with include Buddy L as a supervisor, O&F Machine as VP of sales, Fairchild Graphics, as well as others. From manufacturing cables that helped send rockets into the heavens to carving a pretty bird in his backyard shop, John became the man for an attention to detail and applied care to whatever he needed to tackle.

John met the love of his life Beverly in 1957 and the two would go on to forge a long fulfilling life together. Graduating with the class of 1958 and marrying Bev on June 25th 1960. The couple then welcomed their only child Bryan to the world in 1963 and deepened their bond joining a square dance club where they met many lasting friends. Through the 90s, John opened their home to many exchange students from Brazil keeping in touch with them to the end.

Later in life, John took volunteer work first with the National Kidney Foundation and afterwards his love of nature found a “Home away from Home” The Friends of Wildcat Glades group; mentoring many and pouring his time, energy, and expertise into countless projects to benefit the community and preserve the area.

John also loved his two grandsons, Luke and Matthew, often taking every opportunity to open new doors to them and share his passions, many of which will live on through them.

In January of 2026 when John was diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer, he strongly and bravely never complained once until God was ready to call him home on April 20th 2026. No suffering befell him. John was a man of family, a devout follower of Christ, and had a moral heart of gold. He will be deeply missed by all who’s life he touched.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Beverly; son, Bryan, and wife Marilou; his grandchildren; Matthew, Luke and wife Jolie; his siblings, Don and Judy; as well as countless cousins, extended family, and many friends.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Park Plaza Christian Church in Joplin, Mo. Burial to follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin, Mo. The family invites friends out for a time of visitation prior to the service at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Wildcat Glades and may be entrusted to the mortuary.




Arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, MO.