Shirley M. Monk's Obituary
Shirley M. Monk, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend departed this world and went to her Father on 6/13/2024 at the age of 88. She continues to be loved and missed by many.
Shirley was born in Denison, Texas and graduated from Texas Women’s University with a degree in Accounting. Shirley grew up as the daughter of a decorated military officer, Lt. Col. Charles Hunter Bradley and Ima Mae Bradley. Throughout her early years, Shirley lived in many different countries and states where she enjoyed modeling and synchronized swimming as pass times. While her parents were stationed in Germany, Shirley met Lt. James B. Lang who was an Air Force Fighter Pilot, and they were married. Soon after, they welcomed their son, Jim. In a tragic accident, when Shirley was only 21, her husband, J.B. was killed in a plane crash.
Three years later, Shirley met the love of her life Col. James G. Monk, who was also a fighter pilot in the USAF. They met on a blind date and were married 3 weeks later on June 16, 1960 and remained married for 53 years until James passed away on November 13, 2013. James had two children of his own Debi and Mike and the three of them had suffered a similarly terrible loss of their wife and mother. Shirley instantly became the mother of three. Six years later James and Shirley welcomed their 4th child, Melissa.
Shirley gave her entire heart and being to her family. She selflessly supported her husband through countless moves and multiple deployments as he served his country and she always put the needs and desires of her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family before her own.
Known for her southern hospitality and charm, Shirley had a kind and supportive word for all of those around her. Perhaps not as obvious, but well known to those who know her well, Shirley also exhibited infallible integrity, strength and commitment. (Some might call this stubbornness). Shirley had a competitive streak and always enjoyed dominoes and cards. She also enjoyed cheering on all the Colorado Sports Teams and had a special affinity for sleeping through professional golf tournaments in the afternoons.
Over the course of her life Shirley enjoyed many travel adventures including tent camping with family in the early days, canoeing on the green river, RVing with her husband across the US and traveling abroad with her daughter. She cultivated many deep and lasting friendships with her counterparts from the Military, her various church groups and her social groups including the Donut Squad and the 80’s Ladies.
Shirley was predeceased by her husband, Col. James G. Monk, and her grandson, Adam Monk. She is survived by her four children - Deborah Bridegum, James B. Monk, Michael Monk, Melissa Monk, and their significant others - Jeff Bridegum, Janet Monk, Mary Heins-Monk, her sister Janie Russell, along with 8 Grandchildren - Clif Bridegum (Missy), Brooke Bridegum, Ryan Monk (Andrea), Jodi Monk-Ross (Eric), Jill Hancock-Marble (Jason), Ali Hancock, Shawn Monk and Sarah Monk as well as 4 Great Grandchildren Colt Bridegum, Cora Bridegum, Juniper Monk and George Monk.
Celebration of Life event will take place in Dallas, TX at Restland Funeral Home on Friday, July 19, 2024 at 9:00am followed by an internment at Restland Cemetery in the Garden of Devotion at 10:30am CT.
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