Elsie M. Monroe

Elsie M. Monroe, 94, of Rockford passed away Saturday, September 17, 2016 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born April 10, 1922, in Magnolia, Arkansas, the daughter of Arley and Jimmie (Dingler) Wheeless. She married William Leonard Monroe in 1941. Elsie worked as an operator for Illinois Bell Telephone, retiring after 32 years as a group chief operator. She was a member of Creekwood Baptist Church where she was very active and sang in the choir. Elsie also stayed very active with her “Telephoney” friends, gardening and loved southern gospel music.
Survived by her sons, Ray Monroe and Kenny L. (Jerilynn) Monroe; 6 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and special friends, Lisa, Kathy and Joyce. Predeceased by her husband, son, Lason K. Monroe and brother, Ernie Wheeless.
Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 20, 2016 at Creekwood Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. on Monday at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel and will continue on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial in Texas. To express online condolences, please visit: www.fitzgeraldfh.com.