Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Denese Monroe, beloved mother, grandmother, partner, sister, and friend, passed
away peacefully on March 30 th 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, biological father 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, Patsy
“Pat” Stephens, 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.

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