Mary Lou Monopoli

Born May 2, 1938, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Mary Lou graduated from Lancaster High School, where she excelled academically and athletically as an all-state, all-star basketball player, member of the National Honor Society and Girls State attendee. She later attended Clark University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in General Studies with an English concentration, all while working full-time at Astra Pharmaceuticals.

On December 18, 1970, she married the love of her life, Frank L. Monopoli, with whom she shared 33 years of marriage until his passing. Together, they raised a loving family and built a home filled with love, warmth and laughter.

Mary Lou’s life was centered on family, community, and service. She spent over 25 years as a dedicated Girl Scout troop leader, inspiring young women with her enthusiasm, kindness and adventurous spirit. She also worked as a teacher’s aide, bringing patience and kindness to every child she guided.

An avid New England sports fan, Mary Lou never wavered in her loyalty to her teams. She loved to tell the story of how she saw Ted Williams play at Fenway Park when she was a teenager. She cherished summers at the family pool with her grandchildren, trips to the beach with Frank and their children, often followed by a delicious, lobster dinner, camping adventures with her Girl Scouts, holidays with the family at she and Frank’s home, and the companionship of her many beloved pets. She also loved a good book.

After her beloved husband, Frank’s passing, Mary Lou took several trips to Europe. She especially loved walking the streets of Stockholm where her grandmother walked a century before.

Later in life, Mary Lou relocated to New Jersey in 2009 to be closer to her daughter Erica’s family where she continued to be a cherished mother, grandmother and friend. She relocated once again in 2016 to Washington with Erica’s family where she often referred to herself as a “pioneer” who had headed West. Both in New Jersey and Washington, she became a vibrant member of her senior communities, where she enjoyed cribbage, card and board games, movies, short trips to see local attractions, and the beauty of the outdoors.

Mary Lou is survived by her son Paul Page; daughters Erica Graser, Betty Ann Masiello, and Linda Magnuson; as well as her many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Frank L. Monopoli and her sons Frank M. Monopoli and Mauro Monopoli and grandson, Anthony Monopoli.

Mary Lou will be remembered for her love of life and nature, her devotion to family, and her warmth and kindness. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Mary Lou’s family is planning a Celebration of Life Service in Worcester, Massachusetts in the Spring of 2026. Details will be provided as soon as they are available.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your local senior center or a charity of your choice.