Darnise M. Monroe

Monroe, Darnise M. – of Montrose, age 70, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at MyMichigan Medical Center in Saginaw. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Darnise's honor at 11:00 AM on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Montrose. Rev. Fr. Christian Salata officiating. Burial will follow in Montrose Township Cemetery. The family will receive visitors at the O'Guinn Family Funeral Home in Montrose on Sunday from 1:00 PM until 9:00 PM, with a Rosary Service at 7:00 PM. Visitation will also take place at the church on Monday from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass.

Darnise was born April 20, 1955, in Flint, Michigan, to the late Richard and Mary Lou (Wenzlick) Sears. A lifelong resident of Montrose, she graduated from Hill-McCloy High School, Class of 1973. On November 10, 1973, she married the love of her life, Larry Monroe, and together they shared many devoted years of marriage and family. Darnise dedicated 30 years of service to Montrose Community Schools in Food Service, where she became affectionately known to generations of students as the beloved "Lunch Lady." Her warm smile and kind heart left a lasting impression on countless children. She was a faithful member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church and an active participant in the Altar Society. Darnise also gave her time and energy to the Montrose Music Boosters and was deeply involved in both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts over the years. Darnise found joy in the simple pleasures of life-spending time at the family cabin in Rose City, tending to her garden, creating Diamond Art, and most of all, being surrounded by her family. She cherished every moment with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her love extended beyond her family, as she was truly adored by children everywhere.

She is lovingly survived by her husband, Larry; three children: Heather Monroe (Chris Walker), Lorie Curtis and fiancé Clinton Strickland, and Larry Monroe; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brothers: Timothy Sears and Brian (Penny) Sears; step-sisters: Nancy Dennis, Annette (Pat) Turnwald, Dawn (Lou Mac) McCullough, and Sue Thiel; along with many extended family members and dear friends. Darnise was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Mary Lou Sears; brothers, Bill and Douglas Sears; her sister, Janice; step-sister, Carol Marcum; and her step-father, Frank Kligar.

Her life was one of kindness, service, and unwavering love-a legacy that will continue to live on in all who knew her.

Please sign our guestbook or share an online condolence with the family at www.oguinnfh.com.

O'Guinn Family Funeral Home

Montrose Chapel

810.639.6181