Phyllis Monda

With heavy hearts and fond memories, we announce the passing of Phyllis Monda, a vibrant soul whose laughter and kindness touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Phyllis departed this world on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024, at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy of joy, love and an irrepressible spirit that defined her life.

Born on Feb. 2, 1961, in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y., Phyllis was the daughter of Elena Celentino and Pasquale Monda. She worked for the United States Postal Service before moving to Wilkes-Barre. There, she became an integral part of her family's restaurant, Tony D's, embodying her family's mission of providing a welcoming and inclusive space for all, regardless of who they were or who they loved.

Phyllis was a sister, friend and confidante whose ability to find humor in every situation was nothing short of magical. Whether cracking jokes at the dinner table or sharing heartfelt stories, Phyllis brought laughter and warmth into every room. Her vibrant presence could be felt from just a few feet away, and her love for singing and karaoke always filled the air with joy.

Her spunky, kind and stubborn nature defined her character. Phyllis had a remarkable gift for seeing the good in everyone and everything. She was the first to offer support, stand up for what was right and never gave up on anyone. Her generosity and selflessness created ripples of positivity that will continue to touch lives long after she is gone. Her big heart made people feel valued and loved, and her spirit of giving was truly inspiring.

Family and friends will remember Phyllis not just for her infectious humor and generous nature but for her ability to live life fully and fearlessly. She embraced every moment with open arms, from her adventurous passions to the simple joys of everyday life. Her love for her family, pets and friends was deep and fierce, and she had a special place in her heart for the children in her life, always striving to bring smiles to their faces. Phyllis was an adventurer, a teacher, a spiritual guide, a comedian and so much more. Her spirit was full of life, and she left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Elena Celentino and Pasquale Monda; and beloved family members, Guiseppina and Joey Dellecave.

She is survived by brothers, Ralph Monda, Franco Monda; brother-in-law, Gursa Monda; nephew, Alex Woodbury-Monda and fiancée, Christina Carefoot; niece, Sami Soogian and her husband, James; great nephews and great-nieces, JJ. Nova and Kenzi; cousins, Elvira Dellecave; Grazia Dellecave; Anna Dellecave and her husband, Chris; Gennaro Dellecave; Crescenzo Reedy; and Isabella Reedy, each of whom will cherish the countless memories and moments shared with her. Her loss is profoundly felt, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us.

The family deeply appreciates your support during this difficult time and wishes to thank her exceptional friends Justin Correll, Nicolina Weihbrecht, Greg Barrouk and his wife Toni Barrouk, Rosa Genova Bellia, and her family, Irina Vlade, Michelle Tubolino, Elizabeth Tubolino, Janet Dewat and Danielle Zielinski for their unwavering support throughout her life and during this difficult time.

Celebration of Phyllis's life begins with visitation from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at McLaughlin's, 142 S. Washington St., Wilkes-Barre. It continues there with a gathering at 9 a.m. Monday followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. in the Church of St. Nicholas.

All who knew her are welcome to come together to honor and remember her vibrant spirit. Phyllis was always within her means and led a very basic life, giving everything she had to the people she loved and cared for. Her joy, compassion and kindness were her most significant assets.

In lieu of traditional flowers, the family has expressed that donations be made to the established GoFundMe to assist with Phyllis's final and unexpected future expenses.

Share memories and condolences with Phyllis's family at mjmclaughlin.com.