John Monroe Black, 75, passed away peacefully early Monday, October 27, 2025, at his home in Charleston, MO.

Born February 16, 1950, in Cairo, Illinois, Monroe was the son of Lanie George Black, Jr. and Sue Belle Whitehead Black.  He graduated from Charleston High School and then attended Vanderbilt University on a full scholarship—famously known for wearing his beer tab vest on campus—before later graduating from Southeast Missouri State University with a degree in mathematics.

Monroe's career path was anything but ordinary, often colorful, and occasionally off the beaten path, with his most memorable years spent at the local grain elevator.

He married Martha Ellen Burke, and together they shared a life filled with humor, friendship, and a fair share of good stories.

Monroe was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Lanie George Black, III.

In addition to his wife, Monroe is survived by his two brothers-in-law and their lovely wives, a sister-in-law, six nephews, a niece, and a large extended family who will fondly remember his wit, warmth, and independent spirit.

A lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and golf, Monroe could often be found watching a game or shooting pool with his pool buddies. In retirement, he took great pride in defying the constraints of a traditional bedtime and wake-up call—living life entirely on his own schedule.

An accomplished bridge player. Intelligence defined him. He will forever be known as a refined and man to be reckoned with.

There will be no visitation.

A memorial service celebrating Monroe's life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the McMikle Funeral Home in Charleston, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, plants and gift items, the family kindly requests memorials be made to the Susanna Wesley Family Learning Center, P.O. Box 187, Charleston, MO 63834, the Charleston Nutrition Center, 205 W. Commercial Street, Charleston, MO 63834 or to the charity of donor's choice.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com.