Obituary of Brenda K. McMonagle

Brenda K. McMonagle

Brenda K. (Roelse) McMonagle, 53, of Rome, NY passed away on July 27, 2024, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Born June 11, 1971, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, she is a daughter of Jon Roelse and Kathryn (Meisenhelder) Jasiewicz. She moved to Rome, NY in 1980, graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1990. She received her liberal arts degree at MVCC, and certificate in Management at Utica University in 2004. Brenda married David McMonagle September 9, 1995, at the First Presbyterian Church, Rome. They have two sons Hunter and Hayden. Brenda was employed at AmeriCU Credit Union just shy of 30 years, currently as Digital Banking Specialist. She developed many special long-lasting friendships at AmeriCU over the years. Brenda was serving her third term as Oneida County Legislator, a position she was very proud of.

Brenda was a beloved part of the Rome community: lifetime member of the Rome Chapter of Delta Omega Sorority, past president, Chair of Rome’s American Heart Association Run and Walk, Leadership Mohawk Valley graduate (2014-2015 class), Rome College Foundation board member, past president of Rome Pop Warner Football, RFA lacrosse booster club. A member of both the Rome and Oneida County Republican committees and a member of the 100,000 club.

Brenda was so proud of her sons Hunter and Hayden, never missing a sporting event. She loved every opportunity to watch Hayden perform his music. She was such a ‘boy mom’ but thrilled that Jade was joining the family, so she could have a “daughter”. Brenda always enjoyed her adventures with her Mom, Kathy and was always up for a gathering. She always made time for her friends and spent hours at Spresso’s, but was never there for the coffee. She was a huge Green Bay Packer’s fan and looked forward to her favorite season, Fall-leaves, hoodies and football.

Brenda loved animals and had many special pets over the years. She will be missed by her four-legged best friends Picasso and Marty who were by her side to bring her comfort, especially in the last few months.

Her positivity was unmatched and will be missed beyond words. Even during her treatments, she brought hope and joy to those at the Upstate Cancer center in Verona and everyone she met.

A special thank you to Brenda’s Warriors who helped support Brenda when she was the one in need of a cheerleader. Their support and compassion played an integral role in getting Brenda to chemo appointments, providing meals, but most of all they gave Brenda the encouragement that she needed to keep smiling and fighting.

Brenda is survived by her beloved husband, David McMonagle of Rome; her sons, Hunter (Jade Kent) and Hayden McMonagle of Rome; mother, Kathryn Jasiewicz of Rome; father, Jon Roelse (Corinne) of New Holstein, WI; grandmother, Maxine Fusco; stepmother in-law, Ellen Pouliot; special friend and support person Julie Barker Nagel, several brother and sister in-laws, nieces and nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by her uncle Randy Meisenhelder; stepfather, Fred Jasiewicz; grandparents Gertie and Marvin Roelse; grandfather, Joe Fusco Sr.; uncle, Mayor Joe Fusco Jr.; grandfather, Ken Meisenhelder; uncle, Gary Bonk; in-laws, John and Joan McMonagle.

Friends and family are invited to call at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Road, Rome, NY on Thursday August 1^st from 4:00-7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 2^nd at 12:00 PM at the funeral home with First Presbyterian Church Pastor Edwina Landry officiating. Following the service, interment will take place at Rome Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the SFM Skate Park (Stone Mercurio Skate Park) https://gofund.me/90ff6d9f a cause that was near and dear to Brenda’s heart.

Favorite quote: “Always think happy thoughts.”