WILMINGTON — John Stewart Monroe, Jr., lived an enriched, full, and successful life. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and a loyal friend to the many people he met along his journey.
John’s life on earth began in Sanford, North Carolina, on October 14, 1937. He was the oldest son of John Stewart Monroe, Sr. and Estelle Johnson Monroe.
He attended Sanford High School, where he served as Vice President of his senior class. John excelled in athletics and was a Monogram Club Member, lettering in football, baseball, and basketball. He earned recognition as best defensive player in basketball in 1955 and most valuable player in 1956. John was named an All-State Basketball Player in 1956 by The Charlotte Observer. That same year, he was the inaugural recipient of the Fletcher Powell Memorial Outstanding Athlete Award, an honor reflecting his exceptional talent and leadership both on and off the field.
After graduation, John attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a degree in Industrial Relations in 1960. A devoted Tar Heel fan throughout his life, John took special joy in every victory over rivals N.C. State and Duke.
In 1961, John married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Carol Campbell. They shared 55 wonderful years of marriage. From their union came two beloved children: Cynthia “Cindy” Monroe Koonce and Alexander “Sandy” Stewart Monroe.
A devoted Christian, John lived his faith daily and served faithfully in the churches he attended. His spiritual journey included membership in 16 Presbyterian churches. Over the years, he taught Sunday School classes, chaired numerous committees, and served as Deacon or Elder in 10 congregations, exemplifying steady leadership and humble service. He served as a Billy Graham Crusade Counselor and chaperoned youth trips to Montreat, N.C. with his family. John and Nancy also shared a special calling as Stephen Ministry Leaders, extending Christ’s love and care to those experiencing difficult times. He served on numerous committees, including Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee of the Presbytery of Coastal Carolina, a role reflecting deep trust, respected leadership, and devotion to 189 churches throughout the region.
John built an esteemed 35-year career with Carolina Power & Light Company (CP&L), beginning in 1961. His work spanned from sales positions to key leadership roles, including Local Manager, District Manager, Department Head, and ultimately Vice President – Eastern Division. He retired in 1996 as Vice President – Special Development Projects, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and mentorship.
Beyond his professional and church commitments, John was deeply involved in community service throughout his life. He contributed to many civic organizations, including the Lions Club where he was named Lion of the Year, Civitan International, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, United Way, Toastmasters International, and the Chamber of Commerce. He also served in leadership roles such as Board of Directors of the Salvation Army, on Wilmington’s D.A.R.E. Board,
Chairman of the Committee of 100, Azalea Festival Grand Patron Committee Chair, Trustee of New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Chairman of Pender County Memorial Hospital, and Board Foundation Member at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW).
John was a member of several social clubs, including The Cape Fear Men’s Club, Cape Fear Country Club, and Raleigh’s Capital City Club, where he regularly gathered for lunch during his time in Raleigh.
John found great joy in spending time with his family and grandchildren — Katherine Stewart Yow, Mary Bellamy Monroe Koonce, and Campbell Stewart Monroe — who brought him endless pride and happiness. His hobbies included gardening, in which he achieved the distinction of Master Gardener, as well as traveling, tennis, boating, and snow skiing.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John S. Monroe, Sr. and Estelle Monroe; his beloved wife, Nancy; his infant grandson, William Stewart Monroe; and his brother, Dr. William Murchison Monroe, known to family and friends as Bill. He is survived by his daughter, Cindy Koonce; his son, Sandy and wife Clara Brown Monroe; and his grandchildren, Katherine Yow, Bellamy Koonce, and Campbell Monroe.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the devoted caregivers, nurses, physicians, and the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Team, whose compassion and skill brought comfort and peace during John’s final days.
John Stewart Monroe, Jr. departed his earthly life on January 16, 2026, entering the gates of Heaven and the loving presence of his Savior. His life was a shining example of devotion, service, and love. He gave his all to everything he touched, and his impact will be felt by all who had the honor of knowing him.
A graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Oleander Memorial Gardens. A Service of Witness To the Resurrection in Thanksgiving for the Life of John S. Monroe, Jr. will be held at 2:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 125 S. 3rd Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401.
All are invited to a reception in Gilmore Hall following the worship service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s memory to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
