Monica A. Kean, of late a resident of Liberty, NY, did have an expiration date after all, leaving this world a lesser place upon her passing April 26, 2024, having been born—as she would impishly put it—12/11 and a quarter. She was greeted in Heaven by her husband Paul who predeceased her on May 2, 2020 and her daughter Monica who predeceased her on March 4, 2016.

Monica lived her life of 98 plus years as a loving and supportive wife and homemaker and mother, proud most of all of her progeny, as she would refer to her children, and their professional and personal accomplishments: Son Attorney Robert Kean of Pine Bush, NY and his spouse, daughter-in-law Joan Kean; Son Artist Paul Kean of Livingston Manor, NY and his spouse, predeceased daughter-in-law Arden Kean; Daughter Teacher Monica Kean, predeceased, of Oradell, NJ; and Daughter IT Engineer Jude Kean of Ballston Spa, NY and her spouse, daughter-in-law Paula Katz. 

And her progeny were justly proud of their Mother too when she entered into public service in the Town of Lumberland by being elected in 1973 to serve as the first woman Town Justice to attain that office in Sullivan County, and later during her tenure in office she became the first woman ever elected as President of the New York State Magistrates Association. As a judge the Honorable Monica A. Kean summed up her judicial philosophy in her own words “A judge has to apply the law fairly. Each and every person is the same under the law. It’s my job to see that the principle is carried out.” With that gold standard she served honorably for 12 years, retiring voluntarily in 1985.  

In her day Monica was known as the “hostess with the most-ess,” donning her stylish wigs, with make-up applied just so, and dressed to the nines. She often expressed the firm belief that food is love, especially when enjoying daughter-in-law Joan’s lasagna and/or daughter-in-law Paula’s cheesecake. She gave her love to all she met, and all she met gave her love right back. She is missed. 

When her progeny were grown and came to visit, at the visit’s end she would advise us departing to “Go with God.” Monica A. Kean’s “visit,” so to speak, has come to an end. Taking some poetic license with her counsel, we say “Now you go with God, Mom. Go to God.” And we are sure she has. In addition to her progeny, she is survived by nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

A funeral Mass will be held June 19, 2024, 11:15 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima RC Church, 312 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover, NJ 07936. Interment will follow at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 225 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover, NJ 07936.