Rod Monroe
Warner Pacific University joins the broader Oregon community in remembering Rod Monroe, educator, public servant, and longtime friend of the University, who passed away on February 20, 2026, at the age of 83.
Rod Monroe’s story is closely connected to the early history of Warner Pacific. His father, Warner Monroe, moved his family to Portland in the early 1940s to serve as a professor at Pacific Bible College, the institution that would later become Warner Pacific University. The Monroe family became part of the formative years of the college, contributing to the faith-centered academic community that helped shape its mission and identity. Today, that legacy is still remembered on campus, including the Monroe Garden located near Schlatter Chapel.
Rod Monroe carried that legacy forward. After graduating from Franklin High School in Portland, he enrolled at Warner Pacific College, where he met his wife of more than six decades, Billie. He later earned a master’s degree from Warner Pacific and maintained a lifelong connection to the University. Over the years, he also served on the Warner Pacific Board of Trustees, offering guidance and support to the institution.
A dedicated educator, Rod spent many years teaching history and government, inspiring generations of students and demonstrating a lifelong commitment to education and service.
“Rod Monroe lived a life marked by service, leadership, and faith,” said Doug Wade, Interim President of Warner Pacific University. “His connection to Warner Pacific reaches back to the early days of Pacific Bible College through his father, Warner Monroe, and continued through his own involvement as an alumnus and trustee. Rod’s commitment to education, public service, and the wellbeing of others reflects values that are deeply aligned with the mission of Warner Pacific University.”
Warner Pacific University gives thanks for Rod Monroe’s life of service and for the lasting connection between the Monroe family and the life of the University.