Monroe (Poppee) O'Quin was born on May 22, 1933, in Alexandria, LA, to the late Joseph and Rena O'Quin. He enjoyed the closeness of his beloved siblings throughout his life, Sam O'Quin and Eula Mae Franklin, both of which preceded him in death.

Monroe attended Peabody High School in Alexandria, LA.  He was proud to be a "sharecropper's son" and often expressed a desire to write a book about his early life experiences. Monroe was a jovial man who enjoyed telling dad jokes.  Many of his favorites were of Thibodeau and Boudreaux.  Monroe was well known for his kind heart and his generous spirit.

Monroe joined the United States Army and served his country with honor for 22 years, retiring in December 1977. His military career included multiple duty stations in Germany, service during Korean and the Vietnam Wars, and his final duty station at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. His job was a panel operator firing missiles as a crewmember in a VULCAN fire unit.  Monroe received numerous decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Good Conduct Medals.  He stayed in Saudi Arabi after retiring and his first job was to teach the Saudis how to do leather work.

Monroe moved to Houston in the early 1980s, where he was employed by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.  Monroe worked as a Corrections Office and Laundry Supervisor and retired after ten years of service.

Monroe accepted Christ at an early age.  He was ordained as a deacon at New Mt Calvary Baptist Church where he served for many years.  He later joined Abiding Faith Baptist Church where he served as deacon and a proud member of the Young at Heart.  Monroe also attended New Hope Baptist Church until his health declined.

Monroe was united in marriage to Edna Mae (Reed) O'Quin, who also preceded him in death. Together, they had five loving children: Ronald S. O'Quin, Eula R. O'Quin, Ethel R. O'Quin, James J. O'Quin, and Richard E. O'Quin. Later in life, he moved to Houston and married Gladys (Nettie) Mae O'Quin, who also preceded him in death. They shared a daughter, Mary Sias who was his constant companion and caregiver for many years following the passing of Gladys.

Monroe later married Teressa (White-Menson) O'Quin and, in his final years, found joy with his wife, Belinda (Barnett) O'Quin, who survives him.

Monroe leaves behind a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will cherish his memory. His life was a testament to dedication, service, and love for his family and community.