Barbara J Monhollen

Barbara Lyman Monhollen, a woman cherished for her gentle spirit and unwavering devotion to family and faith, passed away peacefully in Hospice House, Lakeland, Florida. Born on February 1, 1939, in Passaic, New Jersey, Barbara was a beacon of kindness and strength to everyone who knew her.

Barbara was the beloved daughter of Peter Lyman and Elizabeth VanTeynes Lyman. She was predeceased by her parents, her cherished sister, Judith McGrew, and her devoted husband, Harry K. Monhollen, with whom she shared a rich, loving life after marrying on May 19, 1962, in Clifton, NJ.

A graduate of Eastern Christian High School in 1956, Barbara embarked on a fulfilling career in bookkeeping, showcasing her talents across various industries. Her journey led her to Florida, where she co-owned an ice cream parlor that also served Mexican-American cuisine with her husband. Her final professional role was with the Osceola County Council on Aging, where she served as a compassionate companion and helper until her retirement in 2011 at the age of 72.

Barbara was an active member of the St. Cloud Presbyterian Church for many years, later joining the Methodist Church and Senior Center in Madisonville, TN. Her faith remained a pillar of her life, and despite allergies preventing her from attending services in person during her later years, she continued to nurture her spiritual life by watching services on TV.

A gifted seamstress in her early years, Barbara found joy in painting ceramics and assembling puzzles. Above all, she was devoted to her family—her daughter Joy Monhollen, son Kenneth Monhollen, and her four grandchildren, Talia Galentine, Summer Monhollen (Dean Crowder), Sailor Monhollen (Abigail Kaylor), and Hailee Galentine. She also delighted in the laughter and joy of her two great-grandchildren, River Crowder and Wyatt Monhollen. Her legacy lives on through them and her many beloved nieces and nephews.

Barbara had a unique gift for asking life's unanswerable questions, a testament to her inquisitive spirit and deep love for meaningful conversation. Her life was a tapestry of love, support, and unwavering faith—a true testament to a life well-lived.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Life Care of Winter Haven, FL, and Good Shepherd Hospice House in Lakeland, FL, for ensuring that Barbara's final days were filled with compassion, dignity, and care.

In keeping with Barbara's wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held to honor her memory. The burial will be held Monday, October 19th at 1:30pm. The interment will be at Laurel Grove Cemetery in Totowa, NJ. The family appreciates the love and support from all who knew her.