Mona G. Alonzo

Mona Gail Alonzo, age 82 a longtime resident of Northville, passed away peacefully at home on February 10, 2024. She was born in Huntington, Arkansas on October 26, 1941; daughter of Paul and Ivey Lou (Jones) Fuller.

Mona's life journey reflects her unwavering commitment to both family and personal passions. A motivated young woman, she graduated at the age of 16 from Southside High School in Fort Smith, Arkansas in 1958. Her commitment to education continued at Fort Smith Community College then to Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee where she earned a bachelor of arts degree. While in school Mona worked at Vanderbilt University in the Molecular Biology Department as the administrative assistant to the chairman of the department.

Mona found love and companionship with Richard L. Alonzo. Six months later they were united in marriage on October 16, 1965. Their enduring marriage of 58 years is a testament to their deep bond and shared happiness. In 1968, Mona transitioned into motherhood, prioritizing her family above all else. The move to Livonia and later Northville provided a nurturing environment for their growing family. Mona's dedication to creating a loving home and supporting her children's development was paramount during this phase of her life.

Following her children's adulthood, Mona reignited her professional pursuits, joining the University of Michigan Theater Department. Her role as the administrative assistant to the chairman allowed her to contribute to the vibrant cultural community while creating cherished memories over 15 years of service.

Mona found immense enjoyment in the arts, evident in her unwavering support for institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Opera Theater and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, as well as group excursions to the Stratford and Shaw theater festivals in the summertime.  Her travels to diverse cultural hubs like London and New York as well as mainland Europe and Asia further enriched her appreciation for exploring different locales and tasting different cuisines.

Beyond her professional and cultural interests, Mona's warmth and steady guiding support endeared her to her extended family and friends. Her love for literature, cinema, and travel illuminated her vibrant personality and curiosity for the world around her. Mona's legacy lives on through the love she shared, the memories she created, and the profound impact she had on those fortunate enough to know her. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her spirit will continue to inspire those who were touched by her grace and love.

She is survived by her husband Richard Alonzo; her children, Richard “Rick” (Jiehan) Alonzo, Jr. and Caroline Alonzo; her sister LaRille McCrady; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Mona was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Justine “Janie” Bevill and Judy Hart; and her brother Paul “Corky” Fuller, Jr.

A celebration of life will be held. For details, please contact Casterline Funeral Home (248) 349-0611. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Focus Hope or Gleaners Food Bank .