September 29, 2024, 71, Goldsboro —

Trista Shirley Monk, 71, was welcomed into the presence of her Lord early on Sunday morning, September 29, 2024. Trista was born in Wayne County to the late Wilber and Margie Shirley on December 2, 1952. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Doris and James Monk, and brother-in-law, Jerome Monk.

Serving as a teacher with Wilson County Schools for over thirty-one years, Trista’s impact reached hundreds of students over generations. Through the years, she was often approached by former students who recognized her and shared with her the difference she had made in their lives. Teaching was much more than a job; it was her heart.

A long-time member of First Free Will Baptist Church in Goldsboro, Trista worshipped her Lord faithfully alongside her family.

The ultimate pleasure in life was spending time with her family, especially with her children and grandchildren. Each moment was treasured, especially when they could travel together to her favorite destinations. For Trista, the North Carolina Mountains and Disney World were both her happiest places on Earth.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. at First Free Will Baptist Church in Goldsboro followed by a service to celebrate Trista’s life at 5:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Otis Hamm officiating.

Trista is survived by her husband of 48 years, Dennis Joseph Monk; children, Brenna Wolfe (Adam), Courtney Barnes (Jon), and Tanner Monk (Ashley); grandchildren, Wesley Wolfe, Declan Monk, Allie Barnes, and Braylon Monk; sister, Rayne Caudill (Davie); and nephew, Davis Caudill. She is also survived by her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Tim and Tammy Monk, and their children, Troy Monk and Travis Monk.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Trista’s memory to First Free Will Baptist Church, P.O. Box 186, Goldsboro, NC 27533, or Cures for the Colors, SMOC, 203 Cox Blvd., Goldsboro, NC 27534.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.