Jean Moreno

Born on March 3rd, 1971, in Casper, Wyoming, son of Norman Moreno and Nancy Metcalfe, left this world on December 26th, 2023, in Bennington, Nebraska, surrounded by the love of his family.

Jean's early years were marked by the joyous moments he spent on his grandparents' farm during the summers, creating cherished memories that would stay with him throughout his life. He discovered his passion for sports in his youth, excelling in Junior high and high school, even earning the honor of participating in the Junior Olympics twice.

Hockey held a special place in Jean's heart, both as a player and a devoted fan of the Colorado Avalanche. His love for the game would endure, becoming a lifelong connection with the sport.

In 1990, Jean graduated from Powell High School in Wyoming and embarked on a courageous journey by joining the Navy for four years. He served in the Gulf War on the USS Sacramento AOE-1, stationed in Bremerton, Washington. It was there that he met the love of his life, Terriel Griffin-Moreno, in 1992. They married in 1993, and their union blossomed into a beautiful 32-year journey filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Jean pursued higher education at Northwest College in Wyoming, earning his Associates degree in Physical Education. In 1999, the couple relocated to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where Jean commenced a 22-year career at Southwest Airlines. His colleagues affectionately called him "The Jolly Joker" for his infectious laughter and ability to bring joy to those around him. Jean embraced his role as a "Social Peacock," leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone he encountered.

The couple faced both joy and sorrow, as they welcomed their first child, a son named Ashony, in 2002. Despite the pain of his passing, their family grew with the arrival of their daughter, Ashanty, in 2005, bringing boundless love and joy, forever changing their lives. Jean was lucky enough to be blessed with a bonus daughter Alexis in 2011. Jean made sure to cherish every moment with his girls. He took them to father - daughter dances and always made each dance a memorable night. 

Jean had a diverse range of interests, from fishing and camping to long drives and ice skating. He found solace in the mountains and immersed himself in his extensive collection of books, particularly those focused on history and Navy topics. His passion for learning was evident as he continued to expand his library over the years.

A dedicated sports enthusiast, Jean enjoyed watching hockey and football. He always dressed in his unique definition of nice clothes—sweatsuit, Nike shoes, and a ball cap representing one of his favorite teams. Yet, above all, his most cherished pastime was spending quality time with his beloved family and pets.

Jean Moreno will be remembered for his warm spirit, infectious laughter, and the love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, leaving a permanent mark on the hearts of family, friends, and colleagues. May he rest in eternal peace.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents on both sides of parents, his uncles, aunts, and cousins as well as his son Ashony.

He survived by wife Terriel Moreno, daughter Ashanty Moreno, bonus daughter Alexis Craddock, parents Norman and Nancy Moreno, sister Debbie Moreno, many nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephew, extended family and friends. 

He also left behind his fur babies that he loved and cared so much about 

Lollipop (his dog)

Lily-ray (chinchilla, granddaughter)

Bruce

Gizmo

Poncho (Grandson)

Benny 

Johnny Boi (Lizard, grandson)