Rosalie Grehofsky Monahan, dedicated to family
Rosalie Grehofsky Monahan, 81, of Dagsboro died Thursday, May 24, 2018. We said goodbye to Rosalie, who left our world peacefully, holding our hands and touching our hearts with a caress that will last eternally.
Born Rosalie Jane Reis, she was the third of four sisters who were raised in Pittsburgh, Pa. She attended Saint Wendelin's High School, graduating in 1954. A gentle soul with an endearing wit, she caught the attention and then the heart of former classmate, Raymond P. Grehofsky. In 1960, they married, establishing a home, and soon a family, in Bethel Park, Pa. In 1976, Rosalie moved to Newark as Ray took a position with the DuPont Company of Wilmington. After successfully stewarding her children into adulthood, Rosalie rejuvenated and expanded her interests in serving the needs of others. She returned to college, and at the age of 57 received her bachelor's degree from the University of Delaware, and then entered a counseling practice for people struggling with addiction. In 2000, Ray and Rosalie retired to Dagsboro where they took immense pleasure in designing and building their retirement home. In 2003 Rosalie unexpectedly lost her beloved husband to a heart attack.
In 2004, Rosalie was immensely blessed to meet John (Jack) Monahan, with whom she found several kindred interests. With Jack, a sparkle returned to her life that came to define her later years. Friendship blossomed into more, and in October 2009 they married. Rosalie and Jack established a home together in Dagsboro and could be found at the VFW most evenings. Their life together was filled with laughter, activity, traditions, old and new, and blended family.
We will remember Rosalie for the profound impact she had on our lives. Wife, mother, sister, grandma, and friend - she excelled in each role and moved easily among them. She defined commitment to family, and was always there and always an example for us. We will miss her welcoming spirit as her home was your home and unquestionably "the place to be" for any holiday or celebration. Circling the globe to be at her daughter's bedside, returning to the classroom among students half her age, committing her professional energies to working with the afflicted, or acing the 8th Hole at Bethany Bay Golf Club - she has been an inspiration and education for how we should live, love and serve.
Rosalie is survived by her husband Jack Monahan; children Mari, Clare (Patrick), Jane (Matt) and Raymond (Tami); sisters Joan and Mary Ann. She also leaves behind 14 grandchildren, and many loving step-relations. She is predeceased by her sister Nancy.
A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, May 28, at St Ann's Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach.
Donations to the Delaware Hospice are welcomed in lieu of flowers. Arrangements by Melson Funeral Services, Millsboro.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com
