Betty Mae Monke, 96, of Litchfield, died at 4:23 pm. on Sunday, April 28, 2024 at HSHS St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield.
Private graveside services will be held on Friday, May 10, in Elmwood Cemetery. Plummer Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Mrs. Monke was born the only child of the late Everett Martin and Ina (Pratt) Fine on Sept. 18, 1927, in Litchfield. She graduated from Litchfield High School with the class of 1945. She married Russell “Rut” John Monke on April 28, 1946, at the First Baptist Church in Litchfield. Their reception was held at the Litchfield Elks Club. The couple lived on a farm in North Litchfield until retiring in 1986. They then moved into town until Mr/ Monke’s death in 2011. They were married for 65 years.
Mrs. Monke worked as a secretary for an insurance company in Chicago, for Maritz Jewelry Company in St. Louis and the Milnot Company, after returning back to Litchfield. Years later, she would also work as the secretary at New Hope School for many years. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, the Ladies Aid Society in Litchfield, HSHS St. Francis Hospital Auxiliary, Illinois Farm Bureau, Litchfield Country Club and Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.
Mrs. Monke is survived by her daughter, Dr. Jamie J. Monke, and son, Richard A. Monke, both of Litchfield; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and several cousins.
Mrs. Monke was preceded in death by her parents; husband John Monke; and son, Martin J. Monke.
The family suggests memorials be directed to Zion Lutheran Church or HSHS St. Francis Hospital. To light a virtual candle or sign the online guestbook, please visit www.plummerfuneralservices.com
