Obituary of William Collisson Moncrief

     Commander William (Bill) Collisson Moncrief, United States Navy Retired, died peacefully on February 28, 2025 after battling advanced heart failure at home surrounded by family, friends and his dog, Mason in his arms. 

     Born July 23, 1946, in Somers Point, NJ, to Albert and Mary (Collisson) Moncrief, Bill was a fourth-generation Ocean City native. After attending Trenton State College with plans to become a high school teacher, his path took a turn when his perfect vision qualified him for the Navy’s Officer Candidate School, where he became a P-3 Orion pilot. Bill later earned a Master’s in computer systems from the Naval Postgraduate School and spent his final service years at the War College in Washington, D.C. After 20 years in the Navy, Bill continued his career in technology at Georgetown University, where met his wife, Nancy. In 1999, they returned to Cape May County to run the Candlelight Inn, a bed & breakfast for 15 years. There, he built lasting friendships, sharing Navy stories over breakfast with the guests. He also served on the board of The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce and was President of Select Registry.

      Bill is predeceased by his parents, his siblings Robert, Rae & Jack, his nephew, Jonathan and many of his four-legged companions. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Nancy, his sister Ethel, his children Will (Amy), Richard (April), Jana (Dan) and Marcy (Sid), 11 grandchildren, Melissa (Casey), Daylyn, Reilly, Faith, Brynn, Samantha, Emery, Liam, Abigail, Richard and Emily, his sisters-in-law, Elieen and Peggy, and many beloved nieces and nephews. 

     Bill had a wonderful sense of humor, even in his final days—when doctors asked how he was feeling, he’d flash a grin and reply, “With my hands.” Bill’s quick wit and playful spirit could light up any room. He was unwavering in his support for others, always ready to lend a hand, stand up for what was right, and find the silver lining in any situation—his glass was always ¾ full.

      Bill loved cruising the open seas, doting on his dogs and spending time with family. He and Nancy enjoyed exploring new places and making friends on their adventures at sea. At home, he had a soft spot for his pups, always ready with belly rubs and treats. Some of his happiest moments were on the boardwalk with his kids and grandkids—eating pizza, riding the rides, and enjoying time together. To Bill, life was all about laughter, making memories, and the love of his family and furry friends.

      His kindness, humor, and unwavering positivity made him a rock for so many, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Fly high Bill! 

He will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery at a future date, with a celebration of life to immediately follow.  

Donations in his memory may be made to NAS Wildwood (usnasw.org), Brunswick Naval Aviation Museum (bnamuseum.org), American Brittany Rescue (americanbrittanyrescue.org), or any animal rescue organization of your choice.