I am so sorry to hear of Monnie's passing.  Even though my family wasn't always close by, we always knew Monnie and Richard would be there when we returned home.   Monnie was a good person who would help you, even if it was just talking, spending a moment of time with you.  Monnie and Richard were such a duo, but Monnie was the backbone, the rock, the steady presence.   I'll always remember how Monnie and her mom showed me how to hand tobacco, which was not easy, lol.  And to multitask, before I knew what the word meant.  Teaching moments.  She is missed.

Marlene Morris-Carr
Jim Carr and Amber Lorenzo (Morris-Carr)

My Aunt Monnie made this world a better place. She loved, never criticized, believed the best, never gave up hope, and just was there in the background working, being a beautiful example of what it means to live quietly and confidently in the moment and taking that moment to show God’s patient kindness and love. She did not make judgements she allowed judgement to be between an individual, God  and their own path. Beautifully modeling grace. She had her opinions - but she bridled her tongue like I’ve never known anyone to be able to do. 
I looked through pictures to find some of the moments I remember her being present in my life. And there are not a lot because I noticed - so many - Aunt Monnie’s in the background. She’s setting out food, serving a drink, bending over to whisper in someone’s ear, she’s working - man she could work - she didn’t have time for a picture. Even at church - she was watching the babies- so others could worship, so many times she was in the background holding the baby, walking with toddler so someone could focus on what they needed to do. 
I remember seeing her she in the bed of the pick up truck stacking fertilizer bags like they were throw pillows. IDK why but I remember that image and I remember thinking - I want to be that strong. 
I never heard her complain about the heat. I remember putting on sticks on the looper - some boys had put a tobacco worm on a stick waving it around at me and teasing me. She cut her eyes at me and said don’t you let them know you’re bothered - just go on - don’t make a fuss. They’ll leave you alone. Life lessons like that- life lessons - like - I know you’re hot but if you go inside in that AC it’ll make it worse. Life lessons that said- you can do this, you can move pass the discomfort - you can overcome fear- 
So much she taught me and so many others. Much of how I live my life now is due to the example of my Aunt Monnie. May I carry on her legacy in a way that would make her proud.

To the one who taught me how to shuck corn, snap peas, pick strawberries, dig potatoes, and everything else you will be missed and your legacy will always be remembered. Afternoons on the farm & grabbing a cold soda out of the fridge just walking and talking will live on. Love to the rest of the family.

Growing up just a few mailboxes down on Richardson Road, Granny was like another grandma to me. She was always patient, kind and never one to discourage anyones dreams.
Andy was a brother to me and when Andy’s cow rejected her calf, he let me raise her in his backyard . I named her Little Bit and was convinced she was going to be my future show cow. Granny knew that probably wasn’t in the cards, but instead of telling me “no,” she decided to teach me.

The next day, she helped me put a halter on Little Bit, told me to hold on tight and had me sit on the tailgate of the truck. I had no idea what was about to happen! Granny hit the gas pedal lightly , I lost my grip and Little Bit took off and then we had to go catch her. I looked at Granny and asked, “What are we doing?” She smiled and said, “You wanted a show cow, and a show cow has to learn to walk with you.”

After a couple more attempts and me falling all over the place , Granny simply grabbed Little Bit herself and started walking. That little calf never hesitated. I remember thinking, “That is one strong woman.” By the very next day, I was proudly walking Little Bit on my own.

I’ll always cherish that memory because it perfectly reflects who Granny was. She didn’t crush my hopes, she encouraged it, taught me and believed in me. I’ll never forget her kindness, her patience and the lessons she shared. She was truly one of a kind and I feel so blessed to have known and loved her. 

Praying for the whole family 🙏
Love 
Amanda Gasiorowski Metcalf

Ms. Monnie was always kind, helpful and encouraging to our family! She was a tremendous pillar of our community and always willing to be of help when needed!
She will always remain  in our  hearts and memories.
My sincere condolences to all of her family members.  You all will be in my continued  thoughts and prayers!
Love,
Gaylene

Sweet lady!  I saw the love btw her and daughter Sonya for many years.  May she rest in Paradise.

Aunt Monnie has always been an inspiration to me ! I will miss her!Her and Uncle Richard’s example and words of wisdom will always be remembered!!Her absence will truly be felt!Prayers lifted for the family!!💖💖Sandy

My condolences to families! I’m so thankful that I got meet and know your mom down throughout the years 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️

Monnie will be missed not just by her family, but by friends and her community.  She was the best neighbor ever. Devoted to her family. She was always bright and positive, always ready to help or share her knowledge of gardening, or anything, with me.  Many times when discussing plants or gardens, we'd  begin by saying, " Monnie says..."
RIP Monnie. We won't see another like you ! Bridget & Colin MacNair

Sonya & Family 
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother.  She must have been an incredible woman. You are in my prayers.

I was honored, blessed and so very grateful to met, spent time and got to know Grannie Monnie, enjoyed cooking meals, and sending her food and treats when possible,and flowers on special occasions, just to make her happy and even crack a smile when she can, that meant more to me,and always held a place in my heart,I am truly so sorry of her passing, much love goes out to her family, and very blessed they have become family  as well., she will always hold a special place in my heart,Love always Sean Kennedy ♥️

OBITUARY

Monnie Bell Jenks

October 29, 1938 – July 8, 2026

Apex Funeral Home

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