10/24/2025
Monroe Barrett
Milan, Michigan
Age 83, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 24, 2025, at his home in Milan, Michigan, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 14, 1942, in Hearts Creek, West Virginia, one of ten children born to Byrd and Garnett (Queen) Barrett. On June 20, 1970, he married the love of his life, Barbara Reid, in Milan, Michigan. They shared 51 wonderful years together before her passing on January 27, 2022.
Monroe was a dedicated and hardworking man who took great pride in his career with Ford Motor Company. He was employed for many years at the Ford Rawsonville Plant, where his reliability and skill earned him great respect. Even after his retirement, Ford called upon him twice to return and assist at the plant—a testament to his commitment and expertise.
Outside of work, Monroe found joy in the simple things that brought him peace. He loved spending time in his woodshop, often sharing his passion for woodworking with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, patiently teaching them the craft he loved. His vegetable garden flourished under his care, and he never missed a chance to spend a quiet afternoon fishing.
Monroe was a former member of the Milan Church of Christ, where in the past his ministry extended beyond the church walls—driving the church school bus and participating in the prison ministry program at FCI in Milan, where he touched many lives through his faith and kindness.
Monroe will be remembered as a gentle, kindhearted man who loved the Lord. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and neighbors.He is survived by his three daughters: Connie (Russell) Dotson of Milan, Annette (John) VanValkenburg of Riga Township, MI, and Linda (John Jr.) Rodifer of Telford, TN; three sons: James (Cathy) Barrett of Oklahoma, James Reid Jr. of Belleville, and Tracy Barrett of Vero Beach, FL; 25 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his three brothers: Herbert, Cecil, and John, along with several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
Besides his wife, Barbara, Monroe was preceded in death by two daughters, Tina Maness and Laura D. Hamilton, and his six siblings.
Visitation will be held at Ochalek-Stark Funeral Home, Milan, on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., and on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Brother Dennis Swindle from the Milan Church of Christ will officiate. Burial will follow at Marble Park Cemetery in Milan.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Milan Church of Christ.
