James M. Monroe, Jr., age 74, a life-long resident of Lightstreet, died on Monday morning, November 4, 2013 at his home surrounded by his family and under the care of Commonwealth Health Hospice.
Jim was born on Thursday, April 27, 1939 in Bloomsburg, a son of the late James M., Sr. and Thelma L. (Crawford) Monroe. Throughout his younger years, Jim attended and completed his education after graduating from Central Columbia High School in 1958. On September 20, 1958, Jim married his loving wife, the former Doris Deebel. Immediately following his education, Jim enlisted with the United States Army National Guard where he served his country faithfully for over eight years until his honorable discharge on January 23, 1965. Jim was employed for over 25 years by Dent Plumbing & Heating, Inc. in Lightstreet. He was also employed by the Columbia-Montour Area Vocational Technical School in Bloomsburg for over 27 years. He was a member of the Canby Lutheran Church, a Life Member of the Lightstreet Community Fire Co., the Millville American Legion Post #564, the National Rifle Assoc. and the National Turkey Federation.
One of Jim's greatest enjoyments was spending his time in the Pennsylvania outdoors hunting, fishing, boating and camping. However, Jim's first priority and love was his wife and family, and especially his grandchildren who would always bring a smile to "Paps" face.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a brother, Jack Monroe.
Surviving in addition to his beloved wife of 55 years, Doris (Deebel) Monroe, is a son: Wayne Monroe and wife, Lois Jean, of Millville; two daughters: Brenda Dent and husband, Fred, of Lightstreet; and Wanda Bissinger and companion, Brian Achy, of Danville; seven grandchildren: Becky Michael, Stephanie Sweitzer, Jacob Dent, Jesse Monroe, Nicole Monroe, Laura Bissinger and Matthew Bissinger; eight great-grandchildren: Hunter Thomas, Gage Michael, Ava Michael, Anthony, Brycen and Betsy Sweitzer, Wyatt Dent and Rylie Monroe; a brother: Frank Monroe and wife, Linda, of Bloomsburg; a sister: Ann Hock and husband, Richard, of Bloomsburg; and a sister-in-law: Mary Monroe of Benton.
A time of Visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday evening, November 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Allen Funeral Home, Inc., 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg
Funeral services will begin on Thursday morning, November 7 at 10 a.m. from the Allen Funeral Home, Inc., Bloomsburg with Rev. Stanley L. Bower, officiating. Graveside services with full Military Honors will be held in the Lightstreet Highland Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Jim's name are suggested to: Canby Lutheran Church, 529 Millertown Rd., Bloomsburg.