James Monroe, affectionately known by many as simply Jim, was born on January 29, 1955. On March 11, 2026, Jim peacefully departed from a life filled with laughter, love, and an endless assortment of antiques and treasures. His presence was as large as his personality - accepting, welcoming, and generous. No one stayed a stranger for long around Jim; he had a unique gift for turning casual acquaintances into lifelong friends.

Jim was a devoted family man, leaving behind his loving son, Jay Monroe, his admired daughter-in-law, Samantha Monroe, and his cherished granddaughter, Brooklynn Monroe. He also leaves behind his sisters, Peggy Woodsmall and Lynn Monroe. He was predeceased by his father, William Monroe, his mother, Elizabeth Monroe, and his brother, Bill Monroe.

For those who knew Jim, they could attest to his love for Coca Cola, black coffee, and his favourite food of corned beef hash, grits and eggs, or shrimp egg fu yung. When it came to music, he had a profound appreciation for Janis Joplin's Mercedes Benz, the works of George Thorogood, and the band, Yes.

Jim enjoyed an array of films, from the action-packed adventures of Indiana Jones, to the Rocky series, and any Nicolas Cage movies that he could lay his hands on. He was also a devoted fan of The History Channel, often deriving inspiration from the past for his antique collections.

A man of diverse interests, Jim relished a good auction, taking up space at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival, collecting antiques and savouring the stories behind them. His favourite local spot was Woody's, a place where he felt right at home.

Jim was a man with a lesson to share - he urged those he loved to live life in a way that brought true happiness. His life was one of extraordinary accomplishments, not least of which was his ability to form lasting connections with those he met. His legacy will carry on, a tangible collection of antiques, oddities, and treasures that mirror his inimitable personality.

Jim made a profound impact on many lives. He will be sorely missed by his family, treasure hunting buddies, and his long-time friends and associates at Big Lots. Jim's legacy of love, laughter, and friendship is a treasure that will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

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