Mary "Noni" (Karakashian) Monfreda, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on May 16, 2023. She was 94 years old and had lived a life filled with love, joy, and cherished memories.
Mary was born on May 28, 1928 in Worcester to her late parents Mihran and Goosina Karakashian, who had emigrated from Armenia with their family. Growing up alongside her brother Charlie, Mary enjoyed summers sailing on Lake Quinsigamond and winters skiing at Ward Hill. She embraced her passion for artistic roller dancing, even in her later years, and was a Roller Kingdom Skating Club member. Mary passed on her love for roller skating by teaching her grandchildren the art. She had a deep affection for dogs and said she never met a dog that didn't love her.
Mary's talent for sewing, which she acquired as a young girl, became a lifelong passion and career; there was nothing she couldn't fix or make. She worked for many years at Jan Sport and David Clark. Her dedication and craftsmanship were admired by many. Over the past year and a half, Mary resided at the Overlook in Charlton, where she formed meaningful connections with new friends who became her extended family.
Above all, Mary cherished her family. She found great joy in spending time with her loved ones and was a pillar of love and support. Mary's warm heart and nurturing spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
Mary was preceded in death, and has now joined, her husband of 63 years, Joseph Monfreda, her daughter Laura Monfreda-Reynolds, and her son Victor Monfreda.
She is survived by her daughter Joanne Perry and her husband Robert of Cherry Valley, her son Gary Monfreda and his wife Michelle of Paxton, and her son-in-law John Reynolds of Spencer; her brother Charles Karakashian and his wife Carol of Venice, FL; eleven grandchildren: Jason Perry and his wife Ashley, Lauren Perry and her husband Bruce Cardinal, Corey Monfreda and his wife Sarah, Branden Monfreda, Anthony Monfreda and his wife Melissa, Michael, Nicholas, Angela Monfreda, Ryan Reynolds, Meaghan Niedzwiecki and her husband Michael, and Kaylin McDermott and her husband Ryan; eight great-grandchildren: Sydney, Chase, Kane, Hazel, Brayden, Gage, Michael Jr., and Parker.
The family would like to thank the Stonebrook staff at the Overlook in Charlton for their exceptional care and support. Mary's presence in the lives of those who knew her will be deeply missed. She leaves a legacy of love, resilience, and cherished memories that will forever be treasured.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, May 22, from 9:30-10:30 AM at St. Joseph's Church, located at 10 H. Putnam Road Extension, Charlton, followed by a funeral mass at 10:30am. Mary will be laid to rest along with her husband at St. John's Cemetery on Cambridge Street in Worcester. Funeral arrangements under the direction of FAZIO FUNERAL HOME, Louis M. Fazio III, Funeral Director.
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, donations may be made in memory of Mary's love for dogs, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St. Worcester, Ma. 01606.