by Tom Dillard

Monte Stahl, secretary of the Society for Louisiana Irises until her recent resignation, died on June 2, 2008. Her irises had bloomed, and she was ready to move on to a garden more promising. Born to Florence and Dave Henderson, on November 2, 1946, in Oklahoma City, Monte lived and gardened here all her life. She attended Oklahoma University, graduating with a degree in psychology. She worked in the Sleep Lab of Presbyterian Hospital for nine years.

In 1968 she married Rick M. Stahl. Rick and Monte had one son, Christopher Martin Stahl, an Oklahoma City resident. She worked with her husband in their family businesses, Monte managing the apparel manufacturing plant in Stroud until her retirement in 2006. She continued to work as a consultant for the plant after its sale.

Her pets and her garden were her passions. Monte’s garden was one of seven iris gardens on tour at the American Iris Society national convention held in Oklahoma City. In addition to the Society for Louisiana Irises, Monte was a Life Member of AIS, the Hemerocallis Society, the Amaryllis Society, and the African Violet Society. She was also an active member of the Oklahoma Iris Society, where she participated in all activities, including shows. In addition to her son, Chris, Monte is survived by her sisters, Susan Petersen of Marlow, Jeanne Charitan of San Antonio, and her brothers, Dave Henderson of Warren, “Texas, and Paul Henderson of Del City; also, her special friend, Justin Mercer of Egham, England. She also leaves behind nine nieces and nephews. While she will be missed by all who knew her, when they look at a flower, especially an iris, she will be with them in memory. A memorial service was held on Thursday, June 5, 2008, in Oklahoma City.

The Society for Louisiana Irises extends its condolences to the Stahl family and friends.