Mona
Parker passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Sunday,
April 27, 2025, at the Gazebo in South Burlington, Vt.
Born
in Saint-Jules, Québec, Mona grew up in the tight-knit community she
always held dear. She graduated from Saint Mary’s School of Nursing
in Montréal as a registered nurse and went on to work as a charge
nurse at several Vermont hospitals, where she was well known for her
skill, compassion and dedication to providing exceptional care.
Mona
had a zest for life. She loved to travel, had a discerning palate and
insisted on red wine — always red. A superb hostess, she was known
for her warm, lively dinner parties. An avid reader, she especially
adored the Chief Inspector Gamache series and read every book by
Louise Penny.
A
lifelong music lover, Mona spent countless hours playing the piano
and even took organ lessons later in life. Her playing was often
accompanied by her own joyful singing. Her favorite pastime was
lunching at Leunig’s Café, where she knew nearly everyone,
followed by a stop at Macy’s. Jazz Fest week was a highlight every
year — she never missed a day, weather permitting. She shared a
special bond with local musician Jenni Johnson, whom she considered a
friend.
Mona
was predeceased by her beloved husband, Norman, as well as many
cherished friends. Her ashes will be interred alongside Norman’s in
New Richmond on the Gaspé Bay Peninsula, where they spent many happy
summers together.
Mona’s
life will be celebrated in September at Leunig’s Café, a place
that brought her great joy. She would be delighted to know friends
are gathering in her honor in such a special spot. Details will be
shared in the coming months.
In
keeping with Mona’s wishes, donations in her memory may be made to
Spectrum Youth & Family Services in Burlington, Vt., an
organization she supported wholeheartedly throughout her life.
A
heartfelt thank-you to the dedicated staff at the Gazebo for their
exceptional care and kindness during Mona’s time there.
This article appears in Apr 30 – May 6, 2025.