Monica Avery

In Loving Memory of Monica Avery: Woman, Mother, Wife & Mentor of Life

As we remember the life of this gentle woman of extraordinary character and strength, this caring mother of two amazing young men, and this loving and supportive wife of the kindest of souls, Monica Avery led by example and has simply blessed those who knew her.  An inspiration in her support for family, Monica was selfless and relentless in providing love and guidance to her boys Richard and Michael, helping them become the men they are today.  As her sons and loving spouse know well, Monica made possible the success of those she loved.

In her nearly 61 years on earth, Monica was devoted to family, loved people in general and always had a smile or witty comment for everyone she met.  Strong willed, yet gentle, Monica always lent support, an ear to an issue and a kind and easy smile to anyone in need.  That was her spirit, a spirit that will live on in her boys, Richard, Michael and Skip.

When we leave this earth to join our heavenly Father, each of us hopes to leave behind a better place.  Monica’s boys described her personal legacy to them. “Through any challenge she never hesitated to give her all, she was committed to creating a loving home for us as well as a legacy of hope and life of compassion. Mom would want to be remembered as someone who cared for others, someone who was strong-willed and not afraid of adversity.  Most importantly, we think she would want to be remembered as someone who loved her family deeply and did everything possible to help us grow, be happy and have opportunities.”

Monica’s husband Skip, her loving companion of 38 years shared his thoughts knowing she continues to watch over her family. “Monica, you were the strength of this family. If it wasn't for your love for the boys, your love and devotion to me, everything we have, everything me and the boys have been able to accomplish, everything I was able to accomplish, and everything we did as a family could never have happened. Your presence is and will always be felt in this house and in our lives. You made our house a home and most of all, filled it with love. “

Monica took great joy in crafting and sewing as well, creating Halloween costumes for the boys and holiday decorations for their home. Friends and family know that most nights Monica could be found cross stitching, which was her favorite pastime.  She would spend hours creating patterns that reminded her of those she loved, then take great delight in sharing these treasured gifts with those she loved. It was Monica’s way of saying “you are in my heart”.

As we pay our respects and share our love for the Avery family, perhaps we should celebrate Monica in the words of our Lord. “I have glorified thee on earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to to do”. John 17:4. Monica’s work here is done save the hopeful legacy she has so brilliantly established for all who knew her.  Rest in peace Monica.  Our lives are better to have known you, our memories are heartfelt and warm, and you have left a mark in each of our hearts……..

Monica Ann (Giroux) Avery, 60, passed away peacefully on Sunday October 9, 2022.  She was born October 16, 1961, in Kingston, New York, to Thomas Giroux and Charlotte Ahern Giroux.  She is survived by her husband of 37 years Lawrence J. “Skip” Avery, 2 sons, Richard Thomas (Kelsey Sheridan) and Michael Christopher Avery; mother Charlotte Giroux; sisters Michelle (David) Chianucci, Mary Kaye Giroux (Robert Kendi); brothers Thomas J. (Lisa) Giroux, Jr.; Timothy (Eileen) Giroux; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, uncles and aunts.  She was preceded in death by her father Thomas J. Giroux, and grandparents Marie Rabideau Giroux, George Giroux, Gertrude Dutcher Ahern and David Ahern Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. at ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 602 Everglade Dr., Madison, on Saturday, October 29, 2022, with Father Bart Timmerman presiding. A visitation will be held on Friday, October 28, 2022, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the CRESS CENTER, 6021 University Ave., Madison, and on Saturday at church one hour before Mass.

The Mass will be live steamed. Please click on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/c/StThomasAquinasChurchMadison/

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that, if you would like, please donate to Easter Seals of Wisconsin ( www.eastersealswisconsin.com ), the Alzheimer’s Association of America ( www.alz.org ), or the charity of your choice in memory of Monica.

We invite you to share your memories here on Monica's tribute wall.

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406