Courtesy photos
August 29th, 1976 – November 27, 2025
Monica Villarreal, 49, of Lansing, Michigan, passed away on November 27. She leaves behind a legacy of bold love, vibrant energy, and an unforgettable spirit. Monica was spunky, spontaneous, and unapologetically herself—a woman who embraced life with fearless joy. Her laughter was contagious, her generosity endless, and she had a remarkable way of making everyone around her feel deeply loved.
Monica loved in a way that was truly unmatched. She had a gift for friendship and welcomed everyone into her life with open arms, treating each person as family. Affectionately known as “Aunt Monica,” she embraced countless nieces and nephews by blood and by choice and cared for them with genuine devotion.
She was the best cheerleader in every sense, always rooting for others to succeed and celebrating every win, big or small.
Monica found joy in music, concerts, dancing, and any gathering that brought people together. Whether surrounded by family or friends, she was happiest in the presence of those she loved. She thrived on laughter, connection, and inclusion, and she shared that light generously with all who knew her.
A profound part of Monica’s journey was the unwavering devotion of her mother and father; Mary Moralez and Tony Villarreal. For over twenty years, Mary cared for Monica throughout her battle with lupus, offering constant love, patience, and strength. Their bond was one of extraordinary resilience and tenderness—a testament to a mother’s unconditional love. The family is forever grateful for the comfort, dignity, and compassion Mary and Tony brought into Monica’s life every day.
Monica was a devoted mother to her children — Alyssa, Angelo, and Alexandreia — who were the center of her world; as well as her bonus children Tyqurrius Hardman, Dennis Parker III, Gage Parker, Anton Parker Jr., Car’reon Gordon and Jordan Haynes. She is also survived by her loving parents, Tony Villarreal and Mary Moralez; her siblings Tony (Tina) Villarreal, Ted (Heather) Villarreal, and Elizabeth Cyphers; and her grandchildren Casius Villarreal, Ellayah Haynes and Cali’jandro Gordon. Monica was cherished as well by her nieces and nephews Mercedes Villarreal, Sophiana Saldana, and Mila Saldana; Antonio Villarreal, Tavian Saldana, Izaiah Villarreal, and Michael Castellanos.
Monica will be remembered for her courage, her warmth, and the radiant spirit she shared so freely with others. Her presence will be profoundly missed, but the love she gave will continue to live on in all who knew her.
Edit: Our publisher, Rina Risper, knew Monica and we send our condolences to her family and friends. When The New Citizens Press Community Action Network was started in 2012, she also volunteered during stop the violence events. Her effervescent personality and smile will be missed.
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A Mother’s Message
When the dark skies take over, and the sun goes down to set
When your heart aches at those odd hours, and it feels like everyone forgets.
Remember everything I showed you about a life with no regrets
Although I can’t be there to hold you, I’ll always be there to protect.
So please, start each morning with the same brave heart
Because even when you mourn me, we will never be apart.
Grief will arise at any time, and arrive in mini waves
But baby, when you’re the life of the party- your memory never fades.
So turn up my favorite songs, and dance into the night
Cause where I’m at, there is no wrong and there’s no more need to fight.
Poem
Now as we gather here today, in honor of this mother
I ask you hold her children tight, as there will never be another.
A loyalty and love unmatched,
Unwavering and unconditional
That hug, those talks and laughs, man they were so medicinal.
To those who knew her best, be sure to lift her daughter’s crowns
Cheer on her son the way she would, keep them on solid grounds.
Tell her grandchildren all about her, the way she loves and gives
Show them how real she was and the way that she forgives.
May we all celebrate her life by demonstrating her devotion
And know within, that this is not the end-
This is a promotion.
By Veronica Villarreal
in honor of Monica Marie Villarreal
Photos below of Monica and her brother, Tony Villareal, and with her children.
