Monica LeMay, 57, passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 2, 2021 in her home
in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Monica was born December 27, 1963 in Coventry, CT. and
grew up in Springfield, MA. She is survived by her brother Martin Downie and was
predeceased by her father, Raymond LeMay, her mother Gail Downie and stepfather
Morton Downie. Monica was a special person who was kind, generous and deeply loyal
to her friends and family. She loved all animals, but was especially attached to her two
dogs Bailey and Peyton. After high school Monica took a job as an interior house
painter for a short time but soon transitioned to the role of direct personal caretaker,
which she would remain in for the rest of her life. She worked early on with underserved
children and later with adults who suffered from a range of mental and physical
disabilities. Monica embodied the role of the protector and passionately stood up for
those who might not be able to stand up for themselves. She loathed bullies and stayed
true to her core beliefs her whole life. Monica was extremely competent, respected and
trusted by her coworkers. They knew she would do the right thing every time for the
many clients that she helped. She was a sensitive soul who felt sympathy more acutely
than most, which made daily life for her very challenging. She suffered anxiety and
became impassioned when she encountered injustice, which was all too common. She
worked mostly at night when things were quieter, caring for those who needed it,
making her mark on the world one person at a time, quietly and humbly. Monica was
also a trusting person who made room for those she could help at home, regularly
taking in boarders who needed a safe place to stay for a few weeks or months. Some
took advantage of her grace but many more just became and remained loyal friends.
Monica was definitely cut from a different cloth than most, some might have even called
her eccentric, but her passion, strength and faith in the ultimate goodness of our world
shined most brightly. We will miss your light Monica, may you now be in a place where
your soul can rest peacefully. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local
ASPCA chapter, Monica was a longtime supporter.
Obituary lovingly written by the family of Monica LeMay