Theola Monnie

The world lost a truly brilliant and vibrant soul on August 4, 2025, with the passing of Theola Monnie. 

Although born in Bremerton, Washington, Theola's spirit was forged in the heart of Seattle's Central District, where she grew up alongside lifelong friends and family, including the Rolax's, Brown's, Bentley's, and Causey's. 

She carried the energy and love of that community throughout her life.

After graduating from Garfield High School, Theola continued her passion for learning through college courses back in the city of Bremerton. She built a life and career that was both fulfilling and a testament to her giving nature. 

As Secretary to the Chief with the Corps of Engineers in Seattle, a career she deeply loved, Theola demonstrated her intelligence and dedication, eventually retiring with a legacy of hard work and kindness.

More than her professional accomplishments, Theola was defined by her immense love for her family. Often a giver, and sometimes to a fault, it was yet her most favorite thing to do. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore Roosevelt Hall and Elsie Mae Hall, both of Louisiana and her brothers Arthur, Gary, and Freddy who made Washington their home. 

She is survived by her siblings, Theodore Roosevelt Hall Jr. (Deana), Margaret Long (Allen), Dwight Hall, and Madelyn Nunnery.

Theola’s legacy of love shines brightest through her children: Clayton Reginald Beaman (aka Reggie), Ceya Marva Blakey (James), Teedi Theola Kelly (Robert Jr.), and Riley Ann McNeil (aka Nikki).

Her life's journey was also blessed by her cherished grandchildren, D'mario, Dejane', and Tyriq Blakey; Tre' (Jessica), MaKaylah, Isaiah, Briawna (Tylen), LaNae (Bryan), and Anthony (aka Rootie) Kelly; Randy and Reggie Ford; and the late Lisa Ford (LeLe). 

She was a proud great-grandmother to Makari Parker, Alonzo Kelly, Drayce Kelly, and Amari Kelly. She also leaves behind her beloved goddaughter, Meena Whiteshield.

To Theola, family extended far beyond blood. She had countless "children in love," special cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom she cherished as her own. Though a formal program could never list every single person she touched, she wanted you to know that the relationship you shared with her was not just known, but deeply felt. She loved you all, and yes, she meant you.

Theola was a force of nature—kind but no-nonsense, and she could laugh, party, and even argue with the best of them. You knew her love was genuine because she gave it so freely. She made many friends along her journey and, despite the good days and bad, would undoubtedly say, "it was worth the trip." 

I think we can all agree... she was simply... the best.

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