Shirley L. Monks

Shirley Irene Littlefield Monks, 99, of East Greenwich, RI, passed away peacefully at home with family. She was the devoted wife of the late Norman Joseph Monks for 67 years. Born in Providence, RI, she was the daughter of the late William and Caroline (White) Littlefield.

She attended Cranston East High School, spending her sophomore year at New Shoreham High School. Upon graduation, she entered Rhode Island State College (URI). While there she joined the Delta Zeta Sorority and was a “Ram” cheerleader for football and basketball.

After graduation, Shirley became a social worker for Rhode Island. She married her college sweetheart, Norman, in 1949. After starting a family, she went back to school and earned her Master’s Degree in Education.

Shirley became a 3rd grade teacher in the Warwick School System. A job she loved. She received a “teacher of the year” award from the RINEA. She also volunteered as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader. After retiring, she worked part time at a small shop in East Greenwich called the Antique Boutique. She was an avid collector and would joke that her paycheck went to her purchases.

Shirley’s parents had deep family ties to Block Island. She spent a lot of time as a child and teenager over at the “island”. Later she would bring that love of the island to her children and grandchildren. They would spend many holidays and vacations there.

She was the proud mother to Diane and Bethany. Along with her husband, they supported their daughters interest in the equestrian sports. Starting at a small farm in East Greenwich, they helped the girls expand to the larger Dapper Dan Farm in Warwick, RI.

Shirley and Norman have been members of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church since 1958. She spent many years on the church’s Altar Guild.

She was the sister to the late Lois Hunter of East Greenwich. She is survived by her daughter Diane Monks McDonald and husband Daniel, and her daughter Bethany Monks Bentsen and husband Brent; her four grandchildren, Rebecca McDonald Haders and husband Andrew, Ashley McDonald-Beye and husband Douglas, Daniel McDonald, Jr and wife Lisa, and Reid Bentsen. She leaves six great grandchildren; Ava and Alice Haders, Lukas and Harrison Beye, and Aubrey and Olivia McDonald. She also leaves many loved nephews, nieces, and godchildren.

There will be a private memorial service at St. Luke’s Church for family at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to VNA Care New England – Hospice at 51 Health Lane, Warwick, RI 02886.