Arlene Monnahan

Arlene Monnahan, 88, of Deer Trail, Colorado, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on July 10, 2026.

Arlene was born on January 19, 1938, in Kiowa, Colorado, to Roy “Bud” Woodard and Catherine (Wall) Woodard. She was the oldest of three daughters, and was raised on the family farm near Agate, Colorado. She graduated from Agate High School in 1956.

Music was an important part of Arlene’s early life. Along with her father and two sisters, she was a gifted musician who played at dances and community gatherings throughout eastern Colorado, bringing joy to many through their talent and love of music.

On April 4, 1959, Arlene married John Monnahan. Together they built a life centered on family and ranching. Side by side, they worked tirelessly to build their cattle operation, with Arlene putting in countless long days alongside John until retiring in 2016. They were blessed with four daughters, Sandra Lynn, Brenda Arlene, Glenda Kay, and Trenda Marie.

Arlene was known for her servant’s heart and her remarkable gift of hospitality. Whether it was feeding hired hands during branding season, preparing holiday meals, or gathering family around the table for special occasions, she expressed her love through her cooking and baking. No one ever left her home hungry, and her meals will be remembered as much for the love that went into them as for their wonderful flavor.

She was a past member of the Deer Trail Jockeyettes and the Deer Trail Music Club. She treasured the friendships she made through the years. Above all, Arlene’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering love touched generations.

Arlene is survived by her husband of 67 years, John Monnahan; her daughters, Brenda (Mike) Geesen of Deer Trail, Colorado, Kay (Joe) Lindsay of Deer Trail, Colorado, and Trenda Monnahan of Jones, Oklahoma; her grandchildren, Dean (Heidi) Geesen, Donna (Cody) Charmasson, Kelsey (Matt) Owens, and Clayton (Elizabeth) Lindsay; ten great-grandchildren; her sister, Sharon (Larry) Shorey; her brother-in-law, Bill Gilbert; her sister-in-law, Rosemary (Bob) King; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Catherine Woodard; her daughter, Sandra Monnahan; her sister, Roberta Gilbert; and her in-laws, Paul and Irene Monnahan.

Arlene’s legacy of hard work, generosity, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Byers Fire/Ambulance, PO Box 85, Byers, CO 80103-0085 (byersfire.org)