An 86-year-old woman in West Virginia fulfilled her long-held dream of seeing a Taco Bell open in her hometown. Known as the ‘Taco Bell Queen’, Pauline Ferrell Monk always hoped for a Taco Bell in Sissonville, a suburb of Charleston. Her son informed her of the good news, saying, ‘Mom, I finally got them to come.’
Pauline Monk remembered her sheer joy when her son, Dana Ferrell, announced the arrival of the restaurant. He had been working to make it happen. Amidst this joy, Monk received tough news. Medical tests showed she had stage 4 cancer, giving her months to live.
During moments of uncertainty, she watched the Taco Bell construction and questioned if she would see its opening. ‘I’m just trying to guess if I’ll see that Taco Bell open,’ she said.
The restaurant’s completion came soon. On opening day, Monk celebrated early with her son, who cut the ribbon. The occasion became more than just another restaurant launch. Pauline, known for her community spirit, became a local sensation.
During the event, the crowd cheered, calling her the ‘Taco Bell queen’. Her popularity spread online. Her favorite orders include a Nachos BellGrande or chicken quesadilla with cinnamon twists for dessert.
Despite the unexpected fame, Monk’s life involves more than fast food. She grew up with seven siblings in a country town and always fostered a spirit of giving. For years, she baked pies for those in her church and community. ‘Since a young age, I’ve been a Christian and have enjoyed giving to others,’ she shared.
Now, her community returns that kindness. People she knew provide her with food. ‘Everybody at church got pies, and they’re giving back,’ she noted.
Monk receives loving care from her husband and family. ‘My husband has taken great care of me,’ she appreciated. Her faith helps her stay at peace with her condition. ‘When the Lord is ready, I’m ready,’ Monk affirmed.
Monk decided against chemotherapy due to her age. Later, she discovered the cancer had spread to her lungs.
She remains intent on sharing kindness and gratitude in her remaining time. Monk values the love from family, community, and those charmed by her story.