With profound sadness, the family of Christine Monsalvatge announces her peaceful passing on Friday, April 30, 2021, at the age of 84 years.
On December 23, 1938, Christine was born to Gerald Dean and Freddie Mae Camp in Tulsa, OK. Christine, also lovingly known as "Aunt Chris, Nana or simply Chris," left the Bay Area in the late '70s and relocated to San Diego, CA. Christine discovered new independence and reconnected with family and dear friends, including Glennetta Wright, Nellie Wright, Norma Jean French, and Doris Thomas. These four ladies, along with Christine, were “thick as thieves” and had a lot of fun together. They were so close that we (Christine's children, nieces, and nephews) came to know and love these women as much as Christine did and referred to them as our Aunts. Christine enjoyed a lifelong friendship with them that spanned over sixty years.
While Christine attended college for a short while and held numerous jobs, she loved children. She landed an ideal position as a Supervisor in the Childcare Center at the Naval Base in San Diego, where she worked for several years. Christine was also a member of the Grand Chapter of California, Eastern Star Club in San Diego. “The membership is made up of men and women who are committed to creating an accepting, friendly environment in which members can live their lives dedicated to the enduring principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.” She met her love and best friend, Charles (Coach), when he was a young man serving in our military Naval Armed Forces. They married on May 11, 1985. Christine was a devoted wife and mother. Coach affectionately referred to her as his “Bokiebear.”
After the passing of her mom, Freddie Mae, Christine became the undisputed matriarch of the family. She justly accepted the role as matriarch and wore the crown proudly. Christine was a woman who dearly loved her family, and we all felt her unwavering support. We instinctively knew she had our best interest at heart because she always had our backs. If you ever needed anything, whether it was seeking out her opinion, a shoulder to lean on, or a friend to talk to, Christine was there for you to offer guidance. She would also help out in any way that she could. We all looked to her to share our deepest secrets or the things we feared the most. Christine would never judge or put you down. She unselfishly made time for us, offering love and her best advice. I’m not sure how she did it, but it seems as though she knew exactly what to say to make everyone feel better.
In addition to being our counselor and advisor, Christine was a phenomenal cook. She would, without exception, invite you into her home, day or night, greeting you with a beautiful smile, warm embrace, and a delicious meal. She held many passions, including socializing with family and friends, shopping, reading her favorite magazines, enjoying sports with Coach, or viewing her favorite cooking shows.
She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 35 years, Charles. Children: Donna Rachelle, Manuel, Melissa (Missy), Vincent, Kenny, and Shirley. Daughter in law: Deloris Wilkins. Grandchildren: Marquis Bleu, Manuel (Manny), Mark, Melodie, Sydel, William, and Sherell. Sisters and Brothers: Co-Pastor Linda Jordan, Napoleon (Poe); James, Thomas, and Sheree. Brother-in-Law, Pastor Josephate Jordan. Nephews: Horace (Skipper); Lionel, Brian, Michael, Edward (Red), Jason, Thomas Jr., Justin, Nathaniel Jordan(Tyrone), Antione (Tony), Napoleon (Sweet), Gerald, C., Ronald, Horace Scott, Roger and Gerald, H. Nieces: Roxanne, Stephanie, Valerie, Renee, Keisha, Retheda (Bebe), Deone, Sherelle, and Vania, as well as numerous relatives and friends, including twelve great-grandchildren.
Christine was predeceased by her parents, Gerald Dean and Freddie Mae. Siblings: Cecilia, LaVela Mae, Horace, and Ronald Dean. Nephew, Deion. Nieces: Myrna Jean, and Yolanda.
A burial for Christine will be held Monday, May 10, 2021 at 12:00 pm at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon, CA 95620-9735.
