Monica Frances Sugrue

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Monica Frances Sugrue (née McKay) on October 2, 2025, after succumbing to a rare degenerative neurological disorder, which she fought valiantly until the end. Monica was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, great-aunt, mother-in-law, and friend to many.

Born in 1942 and raised in Blantyre, Scotland, Monica was one of six children. She was surrounded by four brothers until the later arrival of her sister, Pauline. Monica and Pauline were close "accomplices," along with their unofficial sister, "Cousin Eileen." This mischievous trio shared many adventures and countless, legendary laughs over the years.

Monica received her B.S. in Biochemistry from University of Glasgow in 1967. She worked for years as a pharmacist in Scotland. While at university, Monica met Michael Sugrue, whom she married in 1967 after a whirlwind romance. After the arrival of their three daughters, Mike's work led them to France in 1978. Monica devoted herself tirelessly and selflessly to ensuring her three children adapted smoothly to their new country and culture. She simultaneously involved herself in the community, developed friendships and cultivated an active social life for herself, her couple and her family. These skills were once again put to the test when the family moved to the U.S. in 1986. With her children out of the house and her degree in pharmacy not transferable to the U.S., Monica made the unusual and brave decision to take up a position at Ikea. It suited her well - she was regularly promoted and beloved by her colleagues. Monica enjoyed the dynamic, fast-paced work environment and could handle even the angriest of customers with good humor. In her retirement years in Naples, Florida, Monica continued her active lifestyle - playing golf and tennis, singing in the church choir, volunteering as an aide to homebound seniors, and organizing regular neighborhood parties.

The motto of the McKay clan is "manu forte." Monica embodied this motto, as a fearless, strong and independent woman. She was a force to be reckoned with. She was a "do' -er," who had a zest for life. Monica lived life at full speed and was rarely seen sitting until her diagnosis with Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) in 2019. She bore her disorder with characteristic grace, dignity, bravery and humor. Monica will be remembered as a beautiful, elegant, smart lady, with a kind heart and beautiful, contagious laugh.

Monica is survived by her beloved children Stephanie (and Tom Conaghan, with daughters Chloe, Caroline, and Caileigh), Marcia (and David Lesnik, with daughters Stella and Niamh), and Katy (and Peter Trosini). She is also survived by her brothers Peter and Frank McKay. She was predeceased by her husband, Michael Sugrue, her parents, Archibald and Catherine McKay (nee Rooney), her sister Pauline McDonald (nee McKay), and her brothers, Brendan and Kenneth McKay.

The family would like to thank all the staff and volunteers at Casey House for their exceptional care, compassion and professionalism.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 at 11 a.m. at The Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Chevy Chase, Washington, DC. Interment private.