Maurice Monks, 98, of Fayetteville, TN, passed away on September 1, 2024, at Donalson Care Center. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Higgins Funeral Home, with Bro. Tommy Graham and Bro. Billy Langford officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Monday, September 2, 2024, at Higgins Funeral Home.
Born on October 5, 1925, in Lincoln County, TN, Maurice was the son of the late John William Monks and Vessie Jeffries Monks. He was united in marriage to Wilma Elizabeth Swinford on December 21, 1945, and they enjoyed a life together until her passing on November 7, 2011. They had one daughter, Myra Gale Monks.
Maurice’s early career included farming, working at the Co-op Factory in Skinem, and several years at Kraft Foods. He co-owned Laten and Monks Grocery Store in Skinem, where he forged many lasting friendships. His later career took him to Boeing Company, where he retired after many years. Alongside his work at Boeing, Maurice was dedicated to raising cattle, tending to a large garden, and growing small crops.
Maurice had a strong work ethic from a young age, learning to plow fields with mules at just nine years old. He took great pleasure in hard work and enjoyed sharing stories from his past. He was an active member of Briar Fork Primitive Baptist Church in Hazel Green, AL, where he served as a Deacon and contributed to the church’s upkeep. Despite health challenges in recent years, he remained devoted to his faith, reading his Bible and praying daily. He also served on the board at Pleasant Grove Cemetery.
Maurice is survived by his daughter, Myra Gale Monks; sisters-in-law, Mardell S. Moffett and Patsy Monks; and his beloved bonus family, including Evan, Jana, Clay, Cayvan, Maverick, and Tony, who affectionately called him “Pops.” He was a cherished grandfather to the Mitchell boys. His surviving nieces are Julia Faulkner, Jane Butcher, Jennifer Stafford, Joan Berry, Jill Conley, Janet Steelman, Cindy Langford, Lisa Gibson, Diane Warren, and Dana Sartain; and surviving nephews include Terry Monks, Larry Monks, Chris Gibson, Jeff Swinford, and Tony Swinford.
In addition to his parents, Maurice was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma Swinford Monks; siblings Mildred Holt, Vera Stewart, Frances Gibson, John William Monks, Jr., L. Paul Monks, Burlan Lloyd Monks, and foster brother Earl Gray; and nephews Harrell Stephens and Scott Swinford.
The family extends their gratitude to Lynchburg Care Center, Lincoln Manor, and Donalson Care Center for the compassionate care Maurice received. Special thanks to Betty Monks for her weekly visits, which brought great comfort to Maurice.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Maurice Monks.
The last member of a great Lincoln County family.
Mr. Maurice would at times, bring Mrs. Wilma to the salon and sit while I would do her weekly hair style. We included him in our conversations and I so enjoyed listening to his farming history and his tales of life. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing. Myra, you are in my thoughts often and I’m hoping your sweet memories of your daddy will bring you to brighter days.
Myra we are so sorry about the loss of your daddy. We use to enjoy our visits at the restaurant talking and remembering times past. He seemed to be such a kind man. I pray the Lord will comfort you as only He can in the days to come❤️
I use to take care of Mr. Monks at lincoln manor I loved him and I use to call him daddy long legs due to his legs being so long. My heart breaks to find out his passing .he was a good man and he was a firm believe in praying and reading his Bible. Your in heaven now Mr. Monks. Myra I will be praying for you and your family. With much love. Brittany horn.
Myra I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Maurice lived a long happy life and was a great man.. Cherish the great memories. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your extended family during this difficult time. . Love always.
Myra I’m so sorry for your loss. I know Evan, Jana, and the boys will miss Pops, as he was a big part of their life. Praying for you all during this difficult time.
Maurice was a cherished friend, great conversationalist, and calming influence at Donaldson. He was also a friendly and caring neighbor at home. He will be sorely missed.
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy for the great loss of Mr. Maurice. I pray for his precious family especially Myra, my beautiful friend. I pray!
Myra, I have many fond memories of your dad at the Skinem store and visiting in your home as kids. He was a very nice and welcoming man. You were blessed to have him for a long life. Thinking of you during this sad time.
Myra and the Mitchell’s, my heart aches for your loss. I am so thankful you all had such a long time with Pops. My sincere sympathy to all of you. Much love.
Myra and Family, I’m so sorry to hear about Mr. Maurice my thought’s and prayers are with y’all. Love, Judy Stafford