William Keith Monroe

June 26, 1946 – February 10, 2025

William "Keith" Monroe, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, realtor, and farmer, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Modesto, California, Keith was raised in Hughson, where his parents purchased a small peach ranch in 1948. From the time he was two years old, the ranch was his home—a place where he grew up, worked alongside his father and brother, and later raised his own family.

Keith attended Hughson schools before continuing his education at Modesto Junior College and later Fresno State, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture with a minor in Biology. It was at Fresno State that he met the love of his life, Mary. The two married in 1969, beginning a partnership that lasted 55 years. After graduation, Keith joined the United States Air Force, proudly serving as part of the Dental Corps in Atwater, California, during the Vietnam War.

After his service, Keith and Mary returned to the family ranch in Hughson, where they built their life together. Before starting their family, they enjoyed many adventures, including a memorable three-month road trip across the United States, visiting friends, family, and many of the country's iconic landmarks.

Keith began his career as a licensed Agricultural Pest Control Advisor before eventually taking over the family farm, expanding the crops from peaches to almonds, walnuts, and cherries. A dedicated and proud farmer, he worked the land alongside his son. In 2000, he also obtained his real estate license and became a well-respected and successful realtor in the Central Valley.

Keith and Mary welcomed their son, Nathan, in 1979, and daughter, Amy, in 1983. A devoted father, Keith was always present, cheering them on in all their pursuits. Whether it was coaching soccer, attending all-day swim meets, cheering on new degrees and new jobs, or learning about and supporting their newest hobby, he was their biggest fan. For Keith, family was everything. And for him, family extended wholeheartedly to cousins, aunts and uncles and included many dear friends, some remaining close for more than 70 years.

Later in life, Keith embraced his role as a grandfather, finding joy in golf cart rides around the ranch, storytelling, movie nights, history documentaries, living room dance parties, and sweet treats shared with his grandchildren. Operating out of his trusty recliner, he spent his last years managing the ranch, watching and re-watching movies and tv shows, ordering pens, and laughing with friends and family who came to the living room for a chat.

Keith’s life was full, marked by love, hard work, and unwavering contentment. He loved his family, his farm, his town, and his country. His legacy of kindness, generosity, dedication, humor and warmth will live on for generations to come.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Mary; his son, Nathan (Courtenay); his daughter, Amy; his cherished grandchildren, Abigail, William, Charlotte, and Vivian; his older sister, Betty; his younger brother, Brad (Therese); and many loving nieces, nephews, and friends he considered family.

Keith will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the family, land, and community he loved so dearly.

A celebration of life in Hughson will be held on March 15th. Please contact the family for additional details.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Salvation Army or the Hughson United Soccer League (www.hughsonsoccer.com) in his name.