Maria Loretta Monroe died peacefully March 31st, 2024 in her home in Englewood, New Jersey. She was welcomed home by her parents, Florence and Philip Bartholomew, her brother and sister-in-law, Philip Jr. and Mary Bartholomew, and husband, James Monroe, who preceded her in death. At this blessed homecoming, she was reunited with additional family members who have gone on before. Maria had just celebrated her 71st birthday.

Maria was born on March 16, 1953 to Florence and Philip Bartholomew in Englewood New Jersey. She graduated from Bergen Tech to pursue her passion in cosmetology. In 1981 she joined production Lanman & Kemp Barclay as a production worker and was promoted to receptionist in 2019. Maria excelled in her position and deeply touched her co-workers and customers on a daily basis.

Maria gave her heart to the Lord in November of 1975 and made a huge impact on the church ever since. Maria dedicated her life to Jesus and was “sold out to Christ” as she would always say. In 1985 she served as a Sunday school teacher and became a Head Deaconess to the City of Refuge on October 12th 2020. She was on fire for God and her passion for the Lord shined through every Sunday as she led each morning service. She truly was a solider in the army of the Lord.

Maria lit up every room she walked in, touched every heart she encountered, and prayed for every soul she met. It didn’t matter if you knew Maria for five minutes or 5 years, she had a way of making each experience unforgettable and left a permanent imprint on your heart. Her presence was full of unconditional love and support that was felt by each and every person she met.

Maria is survived by her daughters; Emily and Mary Monroe and her husband Daryll Thornton, grandsons; Nyahti Monroe and Mason Thornton, sister Donna and husband Efrian Marte, nieces; Jennifer and Christina Bartholomew, Rebecca Marte and husband Roger Mann, Nicole Foss, great nieces Destiny Mann and Angelica Bartholomew, Auora and Danielle Foss, great nephews Chad and Cody Mann, Sean Rodriguez, and great great nephews Bryson and Jordan Soto, and furry grandchildren Cinnabun and Cookie.


In lieu of flowers please make a donation to The City of Refuge 127 Grove Street Mahwah NJ 07430