Dr. Jay H. Monari

Dr Jay H. Monari was born in Somerville, NJ on November 24, 1931 to Eleanor (nee Holland) and Thomas Monari. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Helen Gulick and brother-in-law Howard, sister Catherine Gentile and brother-in-law Ernest, sister Mary "Maisy" Bertram and brother-in-law Phil, brother Edward and Sister-in-law Rose, sister Santa Mundy and brother-in-law Douglas, brother Harold, sister Caroline, brother Francis and son Edward Joseph Monari.

Jay graduated from Somerville High School with the Class of 1950. After high school, He attended Rutgers University and graduated in 1956. Earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery from Temple Dental School in 1960, he then served in the Air Force in the Dental Corp for 3 years. He returned to Temple Dental School as an instructor in 1963. Further Graduate education includes a Masters in Education in 1968 and specialty training in dental prosthetics certificate in 1973. After 36 years of teaching, he retired from Temple Dental School as a full Professor. Jay also maintained a private Dental Practice in his family home for 40 years.

Jay was an excellent guitarist. He shared his love for music with anyone who would listen. He invited anyone to learn and play along. His love of the instrument evolved into guitar making and so created the Gypsy Jazz Guitars. He had a zest for food. Most Sundays were spent enjoying doughnuts or a buffet. He had great pride in his home and property. He spent many hours Manicuring his lawn, as he liked to call it, these efforts recognized on multiple occasions by the Brigantine Garden Club. In retirement, he worked on paintings and sketches. His hand painted birthday cards or seashells are some of the family's most prized possessions. His favorite place on Earth, besides at his Wife's side, was the porch in Brigantine. Those who knew him, likely have a moment to recall on the porch, where he always caught "good air".

He married his wife, Florita (nee Graham) on January 6, 1962. Their union of 61 years, resulted in 7 children. He adored his 17 grandchildren: Natalie (Nicholas), Jane (Sara), Jack (Brittnee), Patrick, Richard (David), Bern, Frances, Patrick Jay (Lara), Alexander, Claire, Margaret, Katherine, Kristina, Anna, Edward, Iancu and Sandu and 4 Great Grand children: Nicholas, Benjamin, Kinsley and Charles who will miss their Pop very much.

Jay is survived by his wife, Florita and his children: Francis J. Monari and wife Mercedes Kathryn, Thomas A, Monari, John E. Monari and wife Linda, Nancy (Monari) McKernan and husband Patrick, Mary Joan Monari-Sparks and husband Christopher, Margaret (Monari) Barla and husband Iancu and a host of other relatives and friends. He was the remaining patriarch for this branch of the Monari clan and will be remembered fondly by all.

A Public Visitation will be held at St Vincent Pallotti (Haddon Township, NJ) on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, 10AM-11AM. A Funeral Mass will follow, promptly, at 11AM.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St Jude's children's fund.