Marilyn Denese Monroe

Marilyn Denese Monroe, beloved mother, grandmother, partner, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 30th 2024 in Portland, Oregon. Born on January 16th, 1955, in Portland, Oregon, Marilyn brought warmth, humor, and unconditional love to all who knew her.

Raised by her devoted parents Veona and Charles Monroe, Marilyn shared her childhood with her Monroe siblings on Fremont. She also deeply loved her Branch siblings down on G-Block. Throughout her life, Marilyn appreciated the bond she shared with each of her siblings, a testament to the enduring strength of family ties. She cherished her family bonds and carried their spirit of unity throughout her life.

In her journey through life, Marilyn met her soulmate Wayne Lewis in 1968 at the Imperial skating rink, with whom she shared countless cherished moments and built a beautiful family. Together, they were blessed with three children: Dwayne Lewis, Kieshawn Lewis, and Akia Lewis, and her legacy lives on through her grandchildren Jordan Lewis, Chanelle Lewis, Araya Wilson, Teneil Lewis, Royal Lewis.

Marilyn's zest for life was evident in her favorite pastimes. She was a master at uncovering treasures, whether it be scouring the racks at Marshall's, Ross, Goodwill, or hunting down bargains at Costco. Her weekends were spent cheering on her grandchildren at their various events, attending church services and completing a fellowship at Highland Christian Center where she was a devoted member, indulging her creative side with DIY projects such as crocheting rugs and blankets, visiting her favorite Aunt B who recently turned 101 years old. She had an impeccable sense of fashion and took delight in capturing memories through photography. Marilyn's keen eye for style and her love for preserving moments through photos added an extra layer of vibrancy to her already colorful life.

Marilyn attended Boise Elliott Elementary where she was a track and basketball star, Lincoln High School, and later Portland Community College where she earned an associate’s degree in drug and alcohol counseling, and volunteered at Meals on Wheels, a testament to her dedication to helping others. Marilyn's compassionate nature extended to her plans as she became a licensed registered childcare provider. Throughout her working years Marilyn worked at BMP America, Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, Wacker Siltronic, Oregon Department of Transportation, and completed a practicum at LifeWorks to become a drug and alcohol counselor.

Marilyn was known for her unwavering principles and her no-nonsense approach to life. She valued integrity, honesty, and discretion, earning her a reputation as a straight shooter who always had her loved ones' backs. Marilyn was the definition of a strong independent woman that could make a way out of no way. Marilyn had deep love in her heart but if you didn’t stand on business, she wasn’t your person.

Above all, Marilyn was a pillar of strength, grace, and love. She faced life's challenges with resilience and a smile, embodying the true essence of a matriarch. Her love knew no bounds, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Marilyn was preceded in death by Veona and Charles Monroe, Alice “Poochie” Monroe, Charles Edward Monroe, Clotine Turner, Roy Branch Sr., Roy Branch Jr., Gayle Branch, Wendlien Branch, and Norman Branch. She’s leaves to cherish her memory aunt Beatrice “Aunt B” White, siblings Faye Shabazz, Kaye Robinson, Carl “Randy” Monroe, Diannia Rogers, Roy Clay, Ronda Taylor-Link, Fabian Branch, Phyllis Branch, Sanford Branch, Elaine Branch, her children Akia Lewis, Dwayne Lewis, Kieshawn Lewis, daughter-in-law Tiffany Lewis and a host of nieces and nephews.

Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and eternally remembered. In honoring Marilyn's memory, let us remember her fondness for the color purple, a hue that reflected her vibrant spirit and unwavering faith.