Thomas Alan Monaco's Obituary
Thomas A. Monaco, 75, of Homestead, Florida, died peacefully surrounded by family at Jackson South Medical Center, Miami, Florida, on September 28.
Born on Salem Road in the Township of Union, New Jersey on February 8, 1948, he was the son of Anthony and Helen Monaco. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Mary Below Monaco; his sons John Monaco (Julie) of the Redlands, Florida; and Jimmy Monaco (Tori) of Palm Bay, Florida; grandchildren Lance Monaco of the Redlands, Florida; Ashley Monaco Kerns (Cody) of Homestead, Florida; Sean Monaco of the Redlands, Florida; Liam and Luke Monaco of Palm Bay, Florida; and great grandsons Granger and Colton Kerns of Homestead, Florida, born October 19.
Also surviving is a sister, Jeanne Monaco, of Mount Dora, Florida. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews, great nieces and a great nephew, former students and many dear friends and neighbors.
Tom was born in New Jersey but moved to Florida while very young where he found his lifelong passion for the water. He enjoyed fishing, swimming, scuba diving, lifeguarding, and boating. He liked school and attended Royal Palm Elementary, Riviera Junior High and Coral Park High School. After graduating in 1966, he went on to major in English at the University of Miami. His original intention was to become a lawyer, but he discovered that teaching literature suited him more. He became a high school English teacher and taught for over 50 years in the following Miami schools: Killian High School, Hospital Homebound, Braddock Sr High School and Doral Academy. He loved teaching. He loved discussing literature, scripture, song lyrics, and getting student’s
feedback. He loved being around his students and fellow teachers. He didn’t retire and got sick. He had to retire because he got sick.
When he wasn’t teaching or on the water, he enjoyed being at home with his family and friends and caring for his house, cars, and boat. He often made friends of neighbors he would meet while working outside. He loved helping people and he was very proud of both of his sons and his grandchildren. He savored every visit, phone call and text.
The family will be celebrating his life in a private gathering. Tom would want his male friends to check their PSA and take it seriously. And he would want everyone to enjoy their time on Earth.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?