

Monica Shay Jackson Galloway entered the world at Prince George's Hospital, born on July 5,1965 to the loving parents of Tyrone and Clara Jackson. A proud native Washingtonian, she was raised in Southeast Washington, D.C., where family, faith, and lifelong friendships shaped the remarkable woman she became. On July 24, 2026, Monica peacefully departed this life while holding her daughter's hand, surrounded by the love of her family.
Monica attended Chamberlain High School, where she studied cosmetology and graduated from the Class of 1983. She grew up in the faith of Jehovah's Witnesses in the close-knit community affectionately known as "Witness Village" on 24th Street, SE. Alongside her sister, the two were fondly recognized throughout the neighborhood as "The Jackson Girls." Although she was not baptized in her youth, her faith remained close to her heart. In one of life's most meaningful full-circle moments, Monica returned to Jehovah in her later years and was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in July 2025.
To know Monica was to know laughter. She lived with a carefree spirit that couldn't be confined and carried a joyful energy that brightened every room she entered. She was unforgettable—not because she tried to be, but because being herself was more than enough. Whether she was making everyone laugh, offering heartfelt advice, or simply showing up when she was needed most, Monica left people better than she found them. Family was always her anchor, and no matter where life led her, she never strayed far from her roots.
Monica embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. She delighted in traveling, creating treasured memories during trips to Barcelona, Spain, and on a cruise to Bermuda. She proudly participated in numerous breast cancer walks, often hand in hand with her daughters, supporting a cause close to her heart.
Monica leaves to cherish her memory her three devoted daughters, Erica S. Jackson, Britny M. McGettigan, and Jade R. Jackson; her beloved grandson, Nysaiah D. Jackson ("NyNy"); her loving parents, Tyrone and Clara Jackson; her sister, Deidre M. McCamey; her nephew, R. Derick Piiru; her niece, Shelby E. Clark; and a host of cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, lifelong friends, and extended family whose lives were forever touched by her love, laughter, and unforgettable spirit.
Monica's legacy is not measured only by the years she lived, but by the joy she created, the resilience she embodied, and the love she gave so freely. She reminded us that life is meant to be lived with faith, laughter, good food, great music, honest conversation, and a little friendly smack talk over a game of cards.
She truly was, and always will be, the fabulous one.
Family and friends will unite for a Celebration of Life Memorial Service at 12 noon on Friday, August 7, 2026 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 8009 D'Arcy Rd, Forestville, MD 20747. Interment is Private
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