Obituary of Joan M. Monaco

Joan M. (Leja) Monaco, age 90, of Fairfield and formerly of Westport, entered into eternal rest and passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Sturges Ridge in Fairfield. Born in Bridgeport on March 20, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Felix and Margaret (Smolko) Leja. She was first married to the late Joseph Savo and, in 1969, to the late Joseph M. Monaco.

Joan's life revolved around her family, and she was happiest when surrounded by them. She was an avid bowler, enjoyed playing cards, and loved to travel with her husband and family, especially frequent trips to New York City and Italy. Known by those who loved her as " Mimi ", she was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother , sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and friend to many, she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her devoted son, Joseph Savo Monaco, and his wife Denise of Westport; her cherished granddaughter, Alexandra Monaco, and her husband Pablo Vega-Behar of New York City; as well as several devoted nieces, a  nephew and his family, and her dearly beloved longtime friend, Martha D'Agostino. Additionally, she is survived by her children through marriage, Mark Monaco of Hollywood, FL and Joann Monaco Quaranta and family of Huntington.

In addition to her husband Joseph M. Monaco, she was predeceased by her sister, Mary Ann Menillo, and her brother, Raymond Leja.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Claire Scully and the entire team of staff, nurses, and aides at Sturges Ridge. Their ability to provide Joan with the amenities and opportunities to enjoy her favorite pastimes including bowling, bocce, volleyball, card playing, and even "wine time" was nothing short of exceptional, and the family is eternally grateful.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Trumbull. Friends may greet the family on Monday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. For online condolences, please visit www.abriola.com.