VanCleave, MS - John Christopher Weires, 92, of Vancleave, Miss., passed away Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025. He was born Nov. 1, 1932, in Cumberland, Md., to Walter and Nellie Weires.

John received his bachelor's degree and master's degree from the University of Maryland. He worked as a teacher for 31 years in the Prince George's County, Md., Public School system. While there, he taught industrial arts and the occasional math class. His true gift was teaching wood shop to junior high school students. John served in the Navy as a SeaBee for four years on active duty and another four years in the Reserves.

John will be remembered for his hard work and the passions that brought him joy throughout his life. He had a deep love for dogs, always finding comfort and companionship in their presence. A talented woodworker, John spent countless hours in his workshop creating pieces that will be cherished for generations. Alongside his wife, he also found adventure on the open road, traveling in their RV, exploring and visiting family together.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Nellie Weires; his first wife, Frances Joan (Miller) Weires; and brother, James Weires.

Survivors include his wife, Anita Stewart Speight; children, Mary Sue (Weires) Engelkemier, John Weires, Steve Weires, Jay Speight, Karen (Speight) Frado and Glen Speight; 12 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.

His remains will be interred at Hillcrest Burial Park at a later date.