Mary LaMonica

Mary Louise LaMonica (formerly Bennett) was born on February 5, 1946 in Huntsville, Alabama. Her father thought that if the name “Mary” was good enough for the mother of Jesus, then it would be good enough for his little girl. She moved to central California as a young child and stayed there until her early twenties. Mary was part of a large family- seven siblings, her mom and step dad, and her dad and step mom. As a child, Mary spent hours playing outside, riding her bike, and swimming in the irrigation ditches of their farming community. As a teenager, she spent her time singing in a gospel quartet, being physically active, and being active in her church. Mary loved adventure. Her adventurous spirit combined with her unwavering faith took her to many places as a young adult. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Sociology while in California. Mary was a Journeyman Missionary in Hong Kong for two years. She backpacked through Europe during this time as well. Mary earned her master’s degree in Religious Education from Seminary in Texas. Before moving to Arkansas, Mary also lived in Maryland and Mississippi. Mary moved to Arkansas because her dear friend, JuJu, needed some help after enduring medical struggles. It was in Arkansas that Mary met the love of her life, Andy. Mary and Andy quickly became inseparable. Mary loved everything about Andy, except that he allowed his 100 pound blue merle collie to sleep in bed with him. In 1984, Mary and Andy married and Mary welcomed a poodle into her bed shortly after. In 1985, Mary lost her beloved mother while pregnant with her only child. Mary prayed that God would give her a best friend in her daughter since He called her mother and best friend home so recently. God delivered. Mary gave birth to a strong willed daughter, Kellie, and they indeed became best friends. Mary taught at Pulaski Academy before spending nearly 20 years teaching at Abundant Life School. She taught 5th grade and kindergarten. Her heart was in kindergarten. She loved her kindergarten babies and she loved her precious coworkers. To love your job is great, but to love your coworkers is wonderful. Mary spent most of her summers swimming. She loved the water and passed that love down to her daughter and grandson. She loved being a mother and in my opinion, she excelled at it. When Andy started struggling with health problems, Mary retired and spent all of her time devoted to Andy. Andy passed away at the very end of 2011. Even though Mary was surrounded by so many loving friends and family, nothing brought her joy like the promise of a grandchild. Nearly a year after Andy went to be the Lord, Mary held her grandson, Rock. She quickly became known as “Nanny” and she cherished that title dearly. Mary and Rock became inseparable. They were best friends, also known as double trouble. There was nothing Mary wouldn’t do for Rock. She was completely smitten. And Rock shared that same sentiment. To know Mary is to love Mary. Mary LaMonica went to be with Jesus and a host of family and friends on Wednesday, March 17, 2021. Though we desperately want her here with us; we are comforted that scripture tells us that the moment she left this broken earth, she was in the presence of her Lord and Savior. I’m sure she was greeted with “Welcome Home Mary, My Good and Faithful Servant.”

Arrangements by Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home , 1921 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114, 501-758-1170.