Joseph "Joe" Clark Monroe

Joseph "Joe" Clark Monroe, born on July 1, 1951, in Union, Mississippi, peacefully passed away on September 25, 2024, in Lexington, South Carolina. A man of integrity and warmth, Joe's journey through life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his professional achievements, and his kindness to all.

Joe's early years were spent in Mississippi, where he cultivated lifelong values of honesty, loyalty, and generosity. He graduated from high school in his hometown, Jackson, where he captained the football team and served as senior class president —early indicators of his leadership and dedication to community and teamwork. Joe furthered his education at Hinds Jr. College where he also played football. After two years at Hinds, he enrolled at Mississippi College, earning a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, and laying the foundation for a distinguished career in the meat and poultry distribution industry.

Beginning his career in 1976, Joe dedicated himself to excellence and service in his field. He spent many fruitful years at Columbia Meats in West Columbia, SC, where he was the General Manager working side by side with his son, Glennon. A respected figure in his industry, Joe was a proud member of the National Protein Food Distributors Association (NPFDA) for over 30 years. His leadership was recognized with multiple honors, including the NPFDA's Member of the Year and Lifetime Achievement awards. Joe also played pivotal roles in the Executive Association of Greater Columbia (EAGC) and served on the board of the South Carolina Poultry Federation, including a term as president.

Joe's personal life was filled with the same richness and passion as his professional endeavors. He was an avid golfer, known for making not one, but two holes-in-one on holes 3 and 4 at the Lexington Country Club. Joe also reveled in the simple pleasures of hunting with his brother Leon, fishing in the Keys, watching Mississippi State Football, and enjoying a good bourbon while cooking on his Big Green Egg. His love for music, especially his son Ryan’s bands, Band of Horses and Captain Easy, and Tokyo Joe, was evident through the playlists he enjoyed while sitting on the porch with friends and family.

Above all, Joe was a man of faith and compassion. He served the Lord devoutly and was a friend to all, never judging others and always ready with supportive, wise advice. His wit and humor were legendary to all who met him. Joe’s kindness and welcoming spirit ensured that he never met a stranger. Joe's legacy is one of a life well-lived, filled with laughter, love, and a genuine connection to those around him.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife Marsha; his former wife, Mary, and their two sons, Glennon (Lynda) and Ryan; his stepsons, Philip Walkley (Kelsea) and Mark Walkley (Meagan); his cherished grandchildren, Romey, Archer, Beckett, Emma, and Isaiah; his brother, Leon Monroe (Carol); and his nephew, Trey (Britt). His memory will be treasured by family and friends who knew and loved him. Joe is predeceased by his parents, Lewis Leon “Red” Monroe, Sr. and Ida Louise.

A Celebration of Life service will be held in the coming weeks to honor Joe's memory. Family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of a remarkable man whose impact will be felt for generations to come.

Rest in peace, Joe. Your spirit lives on in the hearts of those you touched.

The South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family. Please share memories and messages on the online guest book by clicking on the “Leave A Tribute” tab above.