James Monroe Jr. " Monroe"

James Monroe Jr., affectionately known as "Monroe" and "Junior", returned to the Lord's loving arms on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Franciscan Health in Crown Point, IN. Born in Corinth, MS, on May 15, 1937, to the late James, Sr. and Bessie Ruth Monroe, he was 87 years old when he transitioned from labor to rest. He relocated to Gary, IN with his parents at a young age. Later in life, he met and married Ella Ree Monroe (Gipson), together they created and nurtured a blended family. James was a member of Mt Moriah Missionary Baptist Church in Gary, IN and worked at Inland Steel Mill in East Chicago, IN until he retired. After retirement he spent time enjoying some of his favorite interests, which included: family, watching Jeopardy with his wife, western movies and professional wrestling matches. He is now in the loving arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As the last living child of his parents union, he will be reunited with family that transitioned on before him - his Parents; his brother, Willie Monroe; sisters, Ethel Monroe, Clara Monroe, Fairy LeBron, Ruthie Mae Monroe, and Evelyn Johnson; granddaughter, Ashlee Atkins-Sparks; and sons, Michael Gipson and Douglas Green. He leaves to cherish his memory a loving and loyal wife of over four decades, Ella Ree Monroe (Gipson). Devoted daughters: Phyllis Walker, Gloria Green and Valerie Gipson, all of Crown Point, IN, Toni Gipson of Louisville, KY, and Shirley Gipson of Minneapolis, MN. Steadfast sons: Kim, Ricky Gipson of Gary, IN and Henry (Jewel) Gipson of Minneapolis, MN. Grandchildren: Krystopher, Anthony, Archie, Antwoin, Aaron, Lawrence, LaDarrell, Michelle, Rozetta, Monica (James), Shaekea, Avis, and Faleasea. A total of 29 Great Grandchildren, he was especially fond of: Ty'Rhen, Tyvhon , Ty'Jhan and Antione Jr., as well as 6 Great-Great Grandchildren, and a host or nieces, nephews, cousins and friends."Monroe" will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. He fought an amazing fight, and although we are saddened by his physical departure; we are eternally grateful that his health struggles are over. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of bravery, family, and love that has greatly impacted those who knew him, and he will forever be remembered. Visitation Saturday, January 18, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Funeral Services 11:00 a.m. all services will be held at Mt Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 735 E 20th Ave., Gary, In. Rev. Dr. Marion J. Johnson Jr. Pastor and Officiating. Arrangements & Direction entrusted to Powell-Coleman Funeral Home.