Monica was born Monica Lynn Storm on January 11, 1954, in Carrollton, Missouri, to Carl "Dave" Storm and Virginia Storm (McCann). As a young child, she moved with her family to Wichita, Kansas, where she spent much of her childhood. During her teenage years, she returned to Carrollton, graduating from high school there before eventually making Wichita her home once again.
On November 14, 1979, Monica married Jerry Deutsch. Together they welcomed their daughter, Misty Dawn, who became the center of Monica's world. Misty was her pride and joy, her baby girl, and the person she loved beyond measure. Although Monica and Jerry later divorced, their friendship endured. They remained best friends until Jerry's passing, a testament to the deep bond they shared.
Many people throughout Wichita knew Monica as "The Jewelry Lady." For years, she worked in the jewelry departments at Service Merchandise and later AOK Pawn Shop, helping countless customers find the perfect piece and building lasting friendships along the way. Her warm smile, honest nature, and gift for conversation made her a familiar and beloved face.
Monica wore many titles throughout her life: daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. She treasured them all. But the title she cherished most was "Nana." To her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends, she was simply Nana, and she embraced that role with her whole heart. If asked who her favorite was, however, she would undoubtedly say Scoot, Misty's brother; Monica's beloved dog.
Family was everything to Monica. Some of her happiest moments were spent near the water, surrounded by the people she loved. Whether she was relaxing at her cabin on the river, fishing at a favorite lake, or simply sitting by the water's edge with family nearby, she felt at peace. Those moments became treasured memories that will live on in the hearts of everyone who shared them with her.
Monica had a laugh that could fill a room. It was impossible not to laugh along with her. Her kindness, compassion, and love for others were evident in the way she looked at people and the way she made everyone feel welcome. She loved deeply, cared fiercely, and left a lasting impression on every life she touched.
She is reunited with those who went before her: her father, Carl "Dave" Storm; her mother, Virginia Storm; her brother, Ricky Storm; her former husband and lifelong best friend, Jerry Deutsch; and her precious great-granddaughter, Sophia.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Misty (Juan) Florez; her brother, Bart (Kerri) Storm; her grandchildren, Candace (Robert), Cierra (Brandon), Zoe, Elias, and Madison; five great-grandchildren, with two more blessings on the way; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends who loved her dearly.
Monica's family was the greatest joy of her life, and her love for them can never be measured in words. Though she will be deeply missed, her laughter, stories, and unwavering love will continue to live on through those she leaves behind.
The next time you find yourself at a lake or a river, take a moment for Monica. Grab a fishing pole, put your feet in the water, crack open a cold beer, and remember the good times. Smile, laugh, and tell a story about Nana. She wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
"Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed, and forever dear."
Visitation will be held at Lakeview Funeral Home, 12100 E 13TH ST N, WICHITA, KS 67206, on September 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at Lakeview Funeral Home, 12100 E 13TH ST N, WICHITA, KS 67206, on September 18, 2026, at 2:00 pm, followed by Graveside at Lakeview Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Zach Storm, Jason Storm, Carl Storm, Clayton Dietrich, Elias Florez, Brandon Ontiveros, with honorary pallbearers Juan Florez and Robert Bennett.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kansas Infant Death and SIDS (KIDS) Network, Inc., 300 W Douglas Ave, #145, Wichita, KS 67202, or at https://www.kidsks.org/.
