Friends of Mission Health

It is with great sorrow and deep shock that we share the death of Rev. Sue Owen on February 17, 2026, following a brief and unexpected illness. Sue is survived by her husband, Rev. Jim Monroe, three daughters and six grandchildren, all of whom she adored. 

Since 2006, Sue and Jim led numerous VIM (Volunteers in Mission) groups to Kenya, living there for three years as Mission Volunteers at Maua Methodist Hospital.

Sue was ordained in the United Methodist Church in 1987 and served in numerous capacities throughout Oregon for the next 39 years. Wherever she served, Sue was faithful, generous and wise. Her passion for mission was matched only by her husband’s. Together they connected people of disparate backgrounds and cultures in the love and grace of Jesus Christ.

Sue was a storyteller who, through sharing stories of people she met, communicated more effectively than with numbers or statistics, illustrating how deeply connected we all are. Her narratives bridged gaps and fostered understanding across cultures. Sue had a smile and laugh that was irresistible, particularly in this world which can be full of sorrow. Sue's absence will be profoundly felt; we cherish our shared moments and her lasting influence on our lives.

A Celebration of Life for Sue will be held Saturday, April 11, at 11:00am Pacific Time at Woodburn United Methodist Church in Woodburn Oregon. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. The link will be shared on the Facebook page as soon as it is available.

Condolences may be sent to:
Rev. Jim Monroe
16 Island View Lane
Cathlamet, WA 98612

Please check to find updates for her Celebration of Life service as well as information about a special FOMH project to honor Sue.