Monica M. Oliver

Monica Maria (Martin) Oliver, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and friend, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 4:28 p.m., surrounded by her husband, children, grandchildren, and dear friends. She was 66 years old.

Monica was born on December 22, 1958, in Columbus, Ohio, to Jesse and Sandra Martin. Her mother always fondly told the story of bringing Monica home on Christmas Day—her own “real live babydoll.” An only child, Monica longed for siblings and later promised herself that when she became a mother, her children would always have each other. She fulfilled that promise, raising her three greatest blessings: Cassandra Annise, Kelly Antoinette, and Shaun Lee.

Monica’s life was defined by devotion to her family, perseverance through challenges, and a passion for service. At just 22 years old, she was a single mother of three. She never complained and never wavered—her children were always her number one focus. Monica began her federal career at the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC), where she worked faithfully for decades in a variety of roles. She left briefly to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse but ultimately returned to DSCC, where she made a lasting impact as an administrative professional, leader, and mentor.

Love found her again in 1993, when she met Terry Oliver. The two married on December 10, 1994, and built a beautiful life together filled with laughter, travel, concerts, and the joy of family. Terry welcomed Monica’s children as his own, and together they created a home overflowing with love.

In 1997, Monica faced one of her greatest battles when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Through surgeries and years of intense treatment, she fought courageously and entered remission in 2002. Her experience inspired her to dedicate over two decades to advocacy and service with the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and “One Woman One Cause.” She spoke openly about her journey to encourage other women, particularly in the African American community, to seek early detection and support.

Monica also made a profound impact in her workplace community. As President of the Columbus Area Chapter of Blacks in Government (CACBIG), she spearheaded scholarships, community service projects, and countless initiatives that uplifted others. She also served as President of the DSCC Culture Council, working to improve relationships between employees and leadership.

Despite her busy career, Monica never let go of her dream of education. Inspired by her children’s pursuit of higher learning, she earned her Bachelor of Business Management from Park University in 2006, completed the DLA Corporate Intern Program in 2009, and went on to receive her MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management. She rose to the position of General Supply Supervisor at DSCC, where she led with compassion and integrity until retiring on disability in 2015 after her cancer returned as Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.

Beyond her many accomplishments, Monica’s proudest role was that of grandmother. Her grandchildren—Jaylen Jesse, Jaila Monique, and Gabriella Irma—were the light of her life. She was present at their births, their milestones, and their everyday moments, showering them with unconditional love. To her, being “Nanny” was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.

After retirement, Monica cherished simple joys—her faith, family, friendships, and the gift of each day. She greeted mornings with gratitude, delighted in birdsong, and ended each night thankful for God’s blessings.

Monica’s life was a testament to strength, love, and faith. She touched countless lives with her kindness, her generosity, and her unwavering spirit. She leaves behind her devoted husband Terry Oliver; her mother Sandra; her children Cassandra, Kelly, and Shaun; her beloved grandchildren Jaylen, Jaila and Gabriella; her stepson Terrance and a host of extended family, friends, and colleagues who will carry her memory forward.

Her family takes comfort in knowing that Monica’s legacy of love will live on through the lives she nurtured, the communities she served, and the example she set of resilience and grace.

Expression of Gratitude

We are especially grateful to Pastor Brandon Mitchell (Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church) for leading such a meaningful service, and to Brother Samuel David Rucker Sr. and Lisa Griffin for their heartfelt participation. Our sincere thanks also go to the staff of Schoedinger East Funeral & Cremation and Forest Lawn Memorial Garden for their compassion and care.

We would like to extend a special thank you to the Rucker Family, Stephanie Smith, Tanishia Lewis-McGraw, Dr. Dionisia Quiroga, Dr. Miriam Lustberg, Ann, Amy, Shannon, Sharla, the entire Stephanie Spielman Center staff, and the staff at Rooster’s Pickerington.

Last but certainly not least, we thank our wonderful family and friends who have surrounded us with love, comfort, meals, stories, and prayers. Your support has carried us more than you know, and we will be forever grateful.