It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived that the family of Arthur Joseph (Joe) Monk of Clarenville announce his passing at the Dr. O’Mahoney Manor on Saturday July 12, 2025 at the age of 83. Surrounded by the love of his family, Joe passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of joy, friendship, and unwavering kindness.
Born on July 21, 1941, in Monkstown, Placentia Bay, Joe was a man who embraced life with open arms. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, he found solace in the woods, hunting and on the water. His passion for the nature was matched only by his love for people.
Joe thoroughly enjoyed every day of teaching during his 30 year career as a high school teacher at Clarenville High. He cherished staff comradery and the students he taught.
Social by nature, Joe never met a stranger. He was the first to greet a newcomer, the last to leave a gathering, and always had a story to share or a joke to tell. He cherished his friends as extended family and treated every get-together as a celebration of life. His laughter could fill a room, and his warmth could lift the heaviest of hearts.
But above all else, Joe was fiercely devoted to his family. A loving husband, father, and the proudest grandfather you could find.
Predeceased by his parents Eva & George Monk, sister Elsie (Archibald) Monk, brother Kirby Butler, parents in law Mae & Jack Monk, brothers-in-law: Bill Monk, Charlie Easton, Floyd Hamilton, Eric Monk and Woodrow Monk, nieces Janet Monk, Ruby Monk and Faye Frost.
Leaving to mourn with fond and loving memories his wife Edwina of 59 years; children Sherry (Eric), Paul (Jill), and Brad (Colette), grandchildren Trevor (Sandra), Danika (Jordan), and Russell who were his world; sisters Alvina Easton, Kay Monk, twin sister Myrtle Snook (Ted); brothers in law Freeman Monk (Jane), Gary Monk (Madeline), Keith Monk; sisters-in-law Vera Hamilton, Daphne Jacobs, Brenda Soper (Paul), Annette Hodder (Dave), Jeanette Balsom (Ronnie), Betty Monk, Shirley Monk and Susie Butler and a large circle of nieces, nephews and cousins. He also leaves behind countless friends, former students, and neighbors whose lives were better for having known him.
Joe’s spirit lives on in the stories we share, fishing and hunting trips and the laughter we carry forward in his honor. He taught us not just in the classroom, but through the way he lived—with joy, generosity, and an open heart.
Visitation to take place from Fewer’s Funeral Home, Clarenville on Monday, July 14 from 2-5 pm and 7-9 pm, and on Tuesday, July 15 from 9:30-11:00 am. At Joe’s request there will be no funeral service. Interment will take place Tuesday, July 15 after visitation at the Pleasant Street Cemetery, Clarenville.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Ronald McDonald House.
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Azariah and Sharon Oram says
July 12, 2025 at 6:02 pmThinking of Edwina and family. Our prayers are with you at this time.
Lisa Chaffey ( Strong known as Sponge to Mr. Monk) says
July 12, 2025 at 6:23 pmTo Joe’s family: sending our deepest condolences and love to you all. I am sure you will hear many stories over the next few days about how Mr. Monk positively impacted the lives of the students he taught, about how he was a friend to all who had the privilege and honour to to have met him and had even a 5 minute conversation with him. I definitely have stories and memories about having him as a teacher during my days at Clarenville high school – as a student and as a fellow teacher. I was honoured to know him through his family. His laughter was contagious, his antics and stories always funny, his classes educational and sometimes challenging. Despite him always telling me to call him Joe, I was never able to do so, it was always Mr. Monk (and will always remain Mr. Monk ) . Much love to you all at this very difficult time
Maurice Smith says
July 12, 2025 at 6:50 pmI am very saddened to hear of Mr. Monk’s passing. He was a great teacher and friend. I have many fond memories of him as a teacher, my internship mentor, and as a family friend. My heartfelt condolences to Edwina, Sherry, Paul, Brad and their families.
Rod and Wanda churchill says
July 12, 2025 at 7:05 pmSo sorry to hear about Joe’s passing . Joe visited my parents (Russell and Annie Avery)regularly and was always up for a joke or a story . Joe and dad were in the home in Bonavista together for a short time and I remember dad being so happy to see him . Edwina and family we send our condolences to you all .
J.J Hart says
July 12, 2025 at 7:20 pmSending prayers and condolences to the family at this difficult time. So sorry for your loss he will be missed by all..
Bobbi (Roberta Stanford) says
July 13, 2025 at 12:00 amEdwin, Sherry, Paul, Brad and families, so sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. I have many fond memories of him as a colleague at Clarenville High. He always had a smile on his face and a laugh that made you smile. He was a great help to me during my first years as a teacher at Clarenville High. He was definitely a friend to all who met him. He was also a very proud husband and father, always talking about his wonderful family. I know he will be missed by you all. My deepest sympathies to all of you. Hopefully your wonderful memories of him will help you through these difficult days.
Ena Young says
July 12, 2025 at 7:25 pmSo sorry for your loss. Sending condolences from our family & Murdoch (my brother)who lived across the hall from him at the manor.
Tom West says
July 12, 2025 at 7:33 pmMy condolences to Mr. Monk’s family I was lucky enough to have him as a teacher and later in life as a friend
Rest easy Joe.
Graham and Patricia Stanley says
July 12, 2025 at 7:34 pmTo Edwina and family, sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. Condolences to all the family. Graham and I loved him as a teacher and over the years when we meet at the mall or somewhere else, we would have a chat and a laugh. He always had a joke. R.I.P Mr. Monk (Joe).
Stephen drodge says
July 12, 2025 at 7:35 pmMy deepest condolences to the monk family at this very difficult time
Trudy Skiffington says
July 12, 2025 at 7:45 pmSo sorry to hear of Mr Monk’s passing, he was a great person with an infectious laugh and wonderful sense of humor. As one of my favorite teachers I would challenge him on his “hockey conversations ” with the boys. RIP Mr Monk you will be missed
Verna Duffitt-Stryde says
July 12, 2025 at 7:50 pmSo very to hear of Mr Monk’s passing. I had him as my homeroom teacher and history teacher while in high school. Fly high with the angels Mr. Monk. Your wings are well deserved.
Don Drodge says
July 12, 2025 at 8:24 pmIt’s very sad to hear this news today. Mr Monk was a wonderful teacher friend and à true gentleman who always had a big smile and à joke when ever we met . Thoughts and prayers for all family and friends
Rest in peace
Mr Monk
Michael O’Mahony says
July 12, 2025 at 8:32 pmReally sorry to hear this news. I had a lot of respect for Mr.Monk, especially from his high school history class.
My condolences to Paul and Brad and the whole family.
Valerie Wiseman says
July 12, 2025 at 8:36 pmTo Edwina and family, we are so very sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. He was such a wonderful person and teacher. He knew how to make a very shy person relax and feel comfortable in his class. His humor and wisdom, (I think of Joe at every election, lol) as well as his generosity will never be forgotten. Keep all of your wonderful memories of Joe close to your heart. Condolences from Lloyd and Val Wiseman.
Gloria Pinsent says
July 12, 2025 at 8:58 pmSorry to hear of Joe’s passing. Sincere condolences to Edwina, Sherry, Paul, Brad and their families at this sad time.
Janice and Robert Gladney says
July 16, 2025 at 4:37 pmWe were very sad to learn of Joe’s passing. Joe taught History to my husband at Horwood High and was a lifelong friend to both our families.What a character! Loved a bit of fun a good joke or story. Always a welcoming smile. Our sincere condolences to Edwina and all the family.
Jeff Bursey says
July 12, 2025 at 9:28 pmSo sorry to hear. Always loved his history lessons, stories, and laughs. He will certainly be missed around town. Thinking of you all, take care.
Nadine & Bill Vardy says
July 12, 2025 at 10:04 pmOur deepest condolences to all the Monk family. Joe taught our kids and had a very positive effect on learning that was unique to him. He was there for other people in the community and was very appreciated for his visits, stories and just being present. He will long be remembered in a very positive way.
Eric & Anne Freeborn says
July 12, 2025 at 10:21 pmEdwina, Sherry, Paul, Bradley & families
We are so very sad today to hear of Joe’s passing. I spent many hours in Joe’s company over the years we spent in Clarenville & still have a chuckle when thinking about some of things he said & the jokes he told. Joe was just a real great guy that you just loved to be around. Our son spent a lot of his time in the Monk household while growing up in Clarenville & considered them among our best friends. To all members of Joe’s family we send our sincere condolences.
Georgina Collins says
July 12, 2025 at 10:44 pmSorry to hear of Joe’s passing
Condolences to the family
Verenia Butler says
July 13, 2025 at 2:15 amSo saddened to hear of Joe’s passing, Sending our sincere condolences to Edwina & family, May his wonderful memories give you strength in those most difficult time and in the days ahead, God Bless…. Verenia & Fred♥
Pauline Metcalfe says
July 13, 2025 at 2:52 amRip Mr. Monk. My deepest condolences to his family.
Pat (Greening) & Larry Critch says
July 13, 2025 at 3:10 amTo Edwina and family, Larry and I send our condolences to you all. We both enjoyed Mr. Monk as a teacher and thereafter, Joe became a friend. He was such a pleasure to chat with and he will be missed.
Lynette Palmer says
July 13, 2025 at 3:24 amMy deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Monk. What a wonderful teacher. I can still see that smile on his face and twinkle in his eye as taught.
Bruce & Sherry Pike & Jane Wiseman says
July 13, 2025 at 8:13 amSending our deepest condolences to all the family. He was a great man and will be missed greatly.
Jacqueline MacKinnon says
July 13, 2025 at 8:13 amEdwina, Sherry, Paul and Brad, I am so sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. Like so many I have countless wonderful memories of Joe from school and hanging out at your house. He was the genuine article. Joe came to our door the day of my Dad’s funerals with a card and tears rolling down his face. He was so sad for us and the loss of a wonderful father and community man. It takes one to know one. I would not necessarily have considered he and my father to have been friends but there was certainly mutual respect and admiration. It meant so much that he came by, shared a story and some tears. But that was Joe, always with a memory, lesson, or story to share and always with a smile on his face.
Lloyd Adams says
July 13, 2025 at 8:26 amEdwina and family
Very sorry to. hearof Joe’s passing,our condolences to you and family at this difficult time.
Lloyd and Audrey
Geraldine Pomroy says
July 13, 2025 at 9:16 amSending sincere condolences to the Monk family. May all your wonderful memories bring you comfort at this sad time.
Ruth Dyke Blundon says
July 13, 2025 at 9:22 amEdwina and family. So very sorry to hear of Mr. Monk’s passing . I had the utmost respect for him as one of my favorite teachers. After finishing my high school years, whenever we crossed paths, we would have a little chat. He had such an infectious laugh and sense of humor. Aways a pleasure to speak with him. I am sure you will find great comfort in the coming days when friends, former student and family remember all the wonderful times shared. Rest easy Mr. Monk.(Joe}
Carol Ann Tobin (Monk) says
July 13, 2025 at 10:40 amVery sorry to hear of Uncle Joe’s passing. Whenever I think of Uncle Joe, the first thing that comes to mind is his unwavering love for his family. He was so proud of you all. To my cousins, I know how hard it is to lose your dad but I find the memories help so much. I hope your countless wonderful family memories help to console you at this time. To my dear aunt, you were the best wife and caretaker possible, you found a strength within that only someone with such strong devotion could possibly find. God bless you and your families at this sad time, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Keith Frost and family says
July 13, 2025 at 11:13 amI will always remember Joe’s laugh, he shared it often with his many friends., He was a good man. Our heartfelt condolences to his loving family.
Rowena and Walter Frost says
July 13, 2025 at 12:02 pmSorry to hear of Joe’s passing. Our sincere condolences to Edwina, Sherry, Paul, Bradley and their families at this sad time ..Rest in peace, Joe.
Sis Bennett says
July 13, 2025 at 12:49 pmCondolences to the Monk family Joe was a great teacher and a wonderful man. I remember being in the country with Dex fishing and Joe and his dog came along. Dex had the fire going and big feed on. We had a great time and lots of laughs. We all had a great lunch. Joe you will be missed by so many people. RIP
Alison (White) Colwell says
July 13, 2025 at 2:05 pmI’m so saddened to hear about Mr. Monk’s passing. History wasn’t my favorite subject, but Mr. Monk was one of my favorite teachers. My sincerest condolences to his family, friends and students.
Pauline Park says
July 13, 2025 at 2:59 pmEdwina,Sherry,Paul & Brad,
I was saddened to hear the news of Joe’s passing.
Joe was a huge part of my childhood growing up in Clarenville.I have countless wonderful memories of him coming to our family home.He always had a story to share and lightened any room with his presence and infectious laugh!
I couldn’t have chosen a more special person to be MC at my wedding .
He will be so missed by everyone he touched.
I will always remember him with fond & loving memories.
Thinking of you all at this difficult time,Sending hugs and comfort your way .
Pauline (Frost )Park
Amanda Penney says
July 13, 2025 at 4:15 pmEdwina and family, we are saddened to hear of Joe’s’ passing,sending our deepest condolences may your precious memories sustain you all at this difficult time.
Leroy and Amanda Penney
Cindy Dean says
July 13, 2025 at 4:17 pmMy condolences to the Monk families. My your many memories bring you comfort and peace in this difficult time.
Susan Saunderson says
July 13, 2025 at 8:40 pmSo so sorry to hear of Mr. Monk’s passing. I remember him as someone who always wanted to have a laugh, or lighten the mood. I am sure you have many memories, may you cherish each one, he may be gone, but he will not be forgotten.
Frazer and Sherry Russell says
July 13, 2025 at 9:33 pmTo the Monk family:
Oh, what a life Joe lived! A proud father and grandfather, a respected educator, a fabulous storyteller, and so much more. Joe was a fine man who brought joy and laughter to so many. May all your wonderful memories bring you peace and comfort at this time.
Jessica Collins and Ernest Collins says
July 14, 2025 at 8:15 amOur condolences to the family. God bless and keep you
Kim Bailey Smith says
July 14, 2025 at 11:17 amRIP Mr Monk. Remember him fondly as a teacher in high school. Condolences to his family.
Walter Butler says
July 14, 2025 at 12:03 pmEdwina and Family,
June and I are both saddened to hear of the death of your beloved husband and father and want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will remember Joe for his friendly manner and dedication to his high school pupils. May he rest in peace.
Gayle Anderson says
July 14, 2025 at 1:48 pmWe only met one time but Joe made me feel like I was a treasured friend who had know him my entire life, I suspect that there are thousands who feel the same way! Joe could make you laugh until you cry, May his memory be a blessing and an inspiration to all!
Aus & Carol Adams says
July 14, 2025 at 2:49 pmSo sorry for your loss. Condolences to all the family
Lori Wiseman/ Dorothy Butt says
July 14, 2025 at 3:12 pmEdwina and family,
So sorry to hear of Mr Monks passing. Our condolences to you and your family.
Lori and Dorothy( resident at OMahoney Center)
Baxter Smith says
July 14, 2025 at 4:32 pmTo Edwina and family,
Sending our condolences to Edwina and Family. Joe will long be remembered by all who knew him—students, colleagues, friends! Hold fast to your many good memories; they will bring you comfort in the days ahead.
And remember: “To live in hearts we leave behind, is not to die.” —Thomas Campbell.
Jean and Bax
Paula and Bert Roberts says
July 14, 2025 at 5:44 pmTo all uncle Joes family and friends, our hearts are heavy with grief over your loss. Mr Monk was the most anomated teacher I’d ever had, his ability to spew out historical dates and events, would make my head spin yet he egnighted a passion to see the magical places he spoke of so fondly. Joe put Bert under his protective wing as he started out at clarenville high school, Bert became a buddy for trips to the cabin with Fred, and then when our son carried the name Joseph, Joe made sure he was at the chtristening, Ian adored uncle Joe as much as Joe adored Ian, faithfully every Christmas Eve Joe and often Edwina came to our house with a special book dedicated to Ian for Christmas,right up until Russell was born., Joe cherished his children and grandchildren and was proud to have his beautiful Edwina by hi side. Rest easy uncle Joe. We will speak of you often and keep our many memories of you close in our hearts
Dennis Whalen and Annette Tucker says
July 14, 2025 at 11:17 pmWe are deeply saddened to hear of Joe’s passing.
We thoroughly enjoyed each and every story and looked forward to seeing him every year in Southport for the food fishery. He will never be forgotten. Our deepest condolences to his family.
Dianne Ploughman says
July 15, 2025 at 1:22 amEdwina, Sherry, Paul, Brad and the entire Monk family. I am so sorry to hear about Joe’s passing….he was an amazing, beautiful person. I really got to know Mr. Monk when he worked in Iqaluit with Tower Arctic…and he insisted that I call him “Joe”…how can I call Mr. Monk (my teacher) “Joe”…..it took awhile and felt uncomfortable in the beginning however I did it (right Edwina). Stories galore and smiles more….that was Joe….he will be missed by many…… Your wings are well deserved Joe (Mr Monk) RIP🪽 🪽🙏
John Adams says
July 15, 2025 at 11:36 amEdwina, Sherry, Paul, Brad and all family members,
Although we never had the pleasure of teaching with Mr. Monk it is very clear to see from the many tributes posted that Mr. Monk was a true educator for life. Many can complete the course of studies but to truly teach it is an art and skill he had and shared with many. Having witnessed the work of Paul,Jill, Brad and Colette one can see the influence Mr. Monk had on their careers.
Cherish the multitude of memories you have for those memories will be with you forever and God Bless.
John & Madeline Adams
George Smith says
July 15, 2025 at 5:09 pmSo sorry to hear of Mr. Monk’s passing. I remember Mr. Monk as a great teacher, story teller and debater in the classroom. In later years when our paths crossed, I knew him as Joe. He still had that grin and laugh about him and always a kind word. Sincere condolences to Edwina and his family. Rest In Peace Joe!
Una says
July 15, 2025 at 7:50 pmTo the Monk family,
Sorry for your loss. Sending you all sincere condolences during this difficult time.
Una King Johnson
Shirley Brewer says
July 15, 2025 at 8:25 pmSincere condolences Brad, Colette, and the Monk family on the passing of your dad, husband and poppy. RIP Joe!
Gary and Priscilla Soper says
July 16, 2025 at 10:02 amEdwina and family.
Condolences and prayers to you all at this sad time.
Rest in peace Joe.
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