Jesse "Monk" Ernest Montalvo

Jesse "Monk" Ernest Montalvo, aged 92, passed away on February 14, 2025, at his residence in Port Arthur, Texas. He was surrounded by his loving family as he joined his beloved wife, Guadalupe "Toby" Soliz Montalvo, on Valentine’s Day.

Born on February 3, 1933, in Port Arthur, Texas, Monk graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School as a member of the Class of 1952. He served honorably in the United States Army, where he earned several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal. After his military service, he dedicated 40+ years of his life to the Texaco Refinery, from which he later retired.

Monk was a man of many interests and talents. He was known for his adventurous spirit, relishing in activities such as fishing and playing the slot machines at local casinos. A true sports enthusiast, he was an avid fan of the Houston Astros and Notre Dame football, often cheering passionately for his favorite teams. Monk also loved to engage in fast pitch softball, bowling, and playing cards with friends, often spending hours immersed in friendly games. He found deep fulfillment in coaching youth football, sharing his love of the sport with the younger generations. 

A character at heart, Monk's personality shone through in his infectious humor. He was a jokester, finding joy even in moments where his audience may not have shared the laughter. His resilience and work ethic defined him, and he was known to prioritize his family above all else. He cherished his role as a grandfather, affectionately known as "Paw Paw," and took immense pride in attending and supporting his children's and grandchildren's events. Family was central to Monk's life, and he fostered deep connections that spanned generations. Monk was a parishioner of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Port Arthur, where he was also a member of the OLG Senior Club. 

Monk is survived by his daughter, Ann Frances Montalvo Broussard and her husband, Kim of Groves, and his son, Damian Jesse Montalvo and his wife, Christina of Magnolia. He leaves behind grandchildren, Heather Broussard, Alisha Ann Lawrence and her husband JoJo of Nederland, Courtney Broussard, Jesse Christopher Montalvo, and Sarah Montalvo, along with great-grandchildren, Dean Broussard Castillo and Oliver Broussard Castillo.

Monk was preceded in death by his parents, Reyes and Alfonso Montalvo, his beloved wife, Guadalupe "Toby" Soliz Montalvo, and siblings, Elizabeth Montalvo Chapa, Stella Montalvo Garcia, Alfred Montalvo, Eleanor Montalvo Collazo, Catherine Montalvo Y'Barro, Henrietta Montalvo Morua, and Alice Montalvo Martinez.

A visitation will take place on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM followed by a Rosary at 6:00 PM at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home in Groves. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Port Arthur. Interment to follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park.

Jesse "Monk" Ernest Montalvo will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his playful spirit, and the profound impact he had on those fortunate enough to know him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience that will endure in the hearts of many.