Charles Monnet

Charles Guy Monnett, Jr. GREENSBORO - Charles Guy Monnett, Jr., 89, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday October 21st in the presence of his devoted family, friends, wonderful caregivers and his cherished dog, Candi. Charlie was born on July 3, 1923, to Charles Guy and Hazel Routh Monnett and lived his entire life in Greensboro. He graduated from Pleasant Garden High School in 1940, then attended Guilford College and Duke University until he began his service with the United States Marine Corps in World War II. He graduated Special Officers Candidate School at Camp LeJeune as an infantry officer, served with the 6th Marine Division on Guadalcanal and throughout the entire Okinawa Campaign. Mr. Monnett then participated in the Japanese surrender in China. After discharge from the USMC as a First Lieutenant, he returned to Duke University where he graduated in 1947. He was an avid fan of Duke Athletics and a charter member of the Iron Dukes. Charlie was married to the love of his life, the beautiful Diamando Katsinas, for sixty-one years prior to her death in 2011. They are survived by their four children: Martha Monnett, Patricia Monnett Hayes, Charles G. Monnett III, and Nila Routh Godwin as well as six grandchildren: Graham Hayes, Evan Hayes, Simone Routh Leo, Elizabeth Monnett, Christopher Monnett and Emily Monnett. Charlie's love of life, devotion to family and country, positive attitude and fortitude will be an example for his family and friends for years to come. He was extremely proud of his service in the United States Marine Corps and lived his life by the exemplary standards instilled during his training and service. Semper Fi. Mr. Monnett began his business career as partner and manager of the Dependable Mill Supply Company and later became Vice President of Dependable Machine Company. In the 1950's he authored 'Knife Grinding and Woodworking Manual', a technical book on the operation of woodworking and machinery which is still being used and sold today. Mr. Monnett was appointed a Fellow in the Institute of Machine Woodworking Technology in London, England, the first such award outside of the British Commonwealth. He went on to become President and owner of Monnett Carpets and Draperies, Inc., a company founded by his father, Guy Monnett, in 1956. Charlie was a member of the Greensboro Lions Club for over 50 years and served as its President. He actively participated in the Marine Corps League and numerous other civic and community organizations. He was a member of West Market Street United Methodist Church. In 1965, the Eye Bank Association of America recognized Mr. Monnett for having obtained more eye donations than anyone in the world. Mr. Monnett was widely recognized for his expertise with regard to Native American cultures. He was an active collector of Indian artifacts throughout his life and assembled one of the largest collections in North Carolina. The family will receive friends at Forbis & Dick North Elm from 6-8pm on Wednesday evening, October 24th. A funeral service will be held Thursday at 11am, October 25th, at West Market Street United Methodist Church. A military graveside service will follow at Guilford Memorial Cemetery. Charlie will be honored by the attendance of the local Marine Corps League, the United States Marine Corps, and the Patriot Guard during the service and visitation. Memorial Contributions may be made to the local Marine Corps League c/o Commandant Scott Matthews: Marine Corps League Detachment 260 P.O. Box 10227 Greensboro NC 27404 or The War Memorial Foundation c/o Carolina Field of Honor, 600 N. Regional Road Greensboro NC 27409. Online condolences may be offered at www.forbisanddick.com.