Witty and wise Suzanne Shaughnessy Monaghan (1941 – 2023) was born in Peterborough and lived most of her life in Oakville, Ontario.  Rarely seen without a brilliant smile she had a glorious laugh that brightened every setting in which she found herself.  Sue had a very large extended family.  Born into the Connelly and Shaughnessy clans and through marriage entered into the Doris and Monaghan clans, Sue was surrounded by love and shared love throughout her life. Her strong faith and resiliency lifted her through the heartbreak of being predeceased by her husband (Philip Monaghan) and all three of her children (Luke Monaghan, Katie Monaghan, Megan Monaghan Mancuso).  She showed her generous love through actions and remained devoted to and cared for her son-in-law, Agostino Mancuso, and two grandsons, Frankie and Quinn Mancuso.

Sue's ability to embrace humanity in all its complicated variations shone through her career in public health.  She was able to creatively, generously, and with integrity serve all with whom she interacted.  She was intellectually curious, accepting of progressive ideas, open-minded and firm in her beliefs.

An avid reader she was a member of several book clubs.  She was involved with many social justice, public health, and educational pursuits and organizations.  Sue understood and lived life with a focus on meaningful connections.  Friends and family describe Sue as an exceptional human being who inspired everyone to face life with grace, humour, honesty, cheerfulness, and humility.  She shared true friendship, spread joy, and created happiness.  Suzanne Shaughnessy Monaghan lived the St. Francis of Assisi prayer by being an instrument of joy and peace.  She had an immensely positive impact on this world, and she will be deeply missed.

A funeral mass will be celebrated for her at 10:30 am on Thursday, February 16 ^th at St. Dominic's Parish (2415 Rebecca St. Oakville).  If attending, please refrain from wearing perfumes/colognes as there will be people with severe allergies who will be in attendance.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Lighthouse Program for Grieving Children or University Women's Club of Oakville Scholarship Fund.  If you would like to send flowers, please contact Acorn Flowers in Oakville as they will deliver to the church prior to the service.

Photo credit:  Sarah Sims Photography