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Denise Monroe, 73, of North Branch passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at her home on Monday, November 24, 2025. Denise was born on October 22, 1952 in Detroit, the daughter of Shirly and Etta (Skank) Wilbourne. Denise attended North branch High School and was a 1970 graduate. She married Ira Monroe on September 5, 2005 in Lapeer. Denise retired from M.K. Chambers.
Denise enjoyed golfing, hanging out with family and friends, lending a helping hand to those in need. She loved caring about her family and Christmas parties. Christmas was her favorite time of year.
Denise is survived by her husband, Ira, children, Ben (Melissa) Peplinski, Michelle Smith, Darrin (Devon) Smith, Janel (Dennis) Colmer, Inga Monroe, Brooke (Matt) Dillenbeck, Kevin Castle, Kim (James) Dean, 19 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, sister, Sharon Wilbourne and many North Branch friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Flo.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to North Branch Thrift Shop.
In keeping with Denise’s wishes, cremation has been entrusted to Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home and a Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.
You may share an online condolence and memories of Denise to the family at www.blackburnchapel.com
Arrangements by Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Denise (Wilbourne) Monroe, please visit our floral store.