Justin was born on July 15‚ 1988. His love and dedication to helping others began at an early age. At the age of three months‚ he began visiting his great-aunt at a local nursing home and bringing much joy to her and the other residents. As he grew‚ it was obvious to everyone that he had a great love and compassion for others. He was a beautiful little boy with blond curls and a heart beyond his years. He had a love for life and nature and a desire to help others. He never met anyone he didn’t like‚ and anyone who ever met him‚ loved him.
At age four‚ he began hunting with his dad. He thought he was a big boy because he got to carry a BB gun. Little did he know‚ his dad was teaching him lessons of life during these trips. Justin was an avid sportsman‚ and he loved to share the outdoors with his friends.
He knew at a young age he wanted to become a fireman‚ and he began to pursue his dream. At age 14‚ he became a junior volunteer at Miller’s Ferry Fire Department‚ where he was named ‘Junior Firefighter of the Year.’ While in high school‚ he took many firefighting classes and became an EMT by his senior year. By his 19th birthday‚ he was a lieutenant at Miller’s Ferry Fire Department.
Justin began to pursue his fire technology degree in September 2006 at Central Piedmont Community College. He began working part-time at Salisbury Fire Department in May 2007. He also worked part-time at Spencer Fire Department and continued to carry on his duties at Miller’s Ferry. His true loves in life were hunting and the fire department.
Justin was a member of Trading Ford Baptist Church‚ where he was active in the youth group. Justin grew up in a Christian home with a family who taught him how to love‚ care‚ and respect others. Someone once described Justin as ‘a young man with an old man’s heart.’ That someone was Victor Isler‚ who died alongside Justin on March 7‚ 2008‚ while fighting a fire at Salisbury Millwork.
Justin accomplished more in 19 years than most people do in a lifetime. He is survived by his parents‚ Eddie and Lisa Monroe‚ and his brother‚ Mark. His legacy of love will never be forgotten by his family‚ who loved him dearly. We can never fill the void in our life‚ but the memories of a loving son and firefighter will live on forever. He was the love of our life and a true blessing from God.
Man I miss you brother but I mow your grave every week I work for Lakeland cemetery services and by the grace of God we will meet again one day in heaven Ole buddy
– William cofer