Monique Andree (Parent) Garred

Monique Andrée Parent Garred, born February 28, 1939 in Beloeil, QC, CA, passed peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on September 7, 2025 at 86 years of age. She was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph Parent and Renée Chauvin Parent. Monique was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Michael Willard Garred Sr.; sister Rita Parent Chabut; and nephew Stephane Parent. She is survived by her brother Levis Parent; children Thomas, Nathaly, and Michael Jr.; nephew Mario; nine grandchildren (to whom she was “Mema”; and twelve great-grandchildren. A devoted wife, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, and friend, she will be deeply missed by all who know her. Raised in a quaint French-speaking Montreal suburb situated on the Richelieu river, Monique attended Catholic school at Église St. Matthieu, which fostered her growth in faith, love, and a lifelong penchant for seeing God’s presence in the world. An astute and active teen, Monique spent her summers working in the orchards at the base of nearby Mont St. Hilaire picking apples, and as a young adult she enjoyed visiting dance halls with her lifelong friend Francoise. Monique would meet Michael Garred, an American Sailor whose ship was docked in the Port of Montreal, when asked to join friends who were showing him the city and needed help translating Michael’s English to their native French. The two would become pen pals and share visits during Michael’s remaining time in the Navy, after which the two would marry and start a family in Canada — eventually relocating their family to Florida. Monique held a special place in the hearts of so many, and the memories shared with her will be cherished forever. From endless games of dice and long, laughter-filled nights of Frustration Rummy, to cozy Sunday morning breakfasts and festive family gatherings on Christmas Eve — she was the beating heart of her family. A dedicated mother, aunt and grandmother, she was willing to work multiple jobs to make sure her children had enough warm clothes in the winter and even once crafted a one-of-a-kind Barbie wardrobe that was admired by all her daughter’s peers. None of the children in her family ever doubted the sincerity in her words, whether they be “Just let me know when you’re ready for me to come pick you up,” “Get your hands away from that!” or “I love you so much.” Monique inspired many — through her creativity, her boundless generosity, and her unwavering faith, she exemplified the values of hard work, perseverance, and, above all, love. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we take comfort in knowing she’s now dancing freely with Michael and her heavenly family, smiling down on us with that same sparkle in her eyes. Until we meet again — we love you, we miss you, and we will carry your love with us always. A memorial service will be held at Allen Summerhill Funeral Home in Deland, FL on September 15, 2025, from 12 pm - 1 pm (family) and 1 pm - 2 pm (public), with a short prayer service to follow. Family and friends are invited to celebrate her incredible life.

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