Monique Gleason

Monique Gleason (81) born on September 23, 1940 in Cahors, and passed away on June 4, 2022 in Marion County, Belleview, Florida. Monique lived for her first 9 years in Congo N.Africa. Her parents owned a Plantation where they grew pineapple, Bananas and Coconuts. When she was 9 there was an outbreak of Typhoid Fever. Both she, her Mother Esperanza and some of the help were able to take the vaccine. There was not enough to go around. As a result her father died. Her mother took her back to her own home country of Italy. They stayed about a year and then moved to France where her Mother worked as a Chemist. Monique went to school, took ballet for many years. She then went to College at the Sorbonne. Receiving her Masters degree in International Law along with a Masters in Art History. She was "highly intelligent" and spoke 5 languages fluently. Italian, Arabic from her father, French, German and English. Could also use a bit of Chinese and Japanese too. She met her husband Martin J. Gleason (Jack) while he was stationed with the USAF at Evreux Air Force Base in France. They were introduced by a mutual friend. He proposed to her in front of Notre Dame Cathedral. She replied you will have to ask Mamma! He did ask her mother for her hand and with her blessing they married in 1962. Their union lasted until he died in 2017. Monique and Jack lived in so many places. France, Italy, Taiwan, New Jersey, California, and Maine to name a few. Monique worked for many years as a Law Advisor for a travel Agency in France. When they were short handed for tour guides, she also led tours all over the world. She climbed the great wall of China. She had seen Alaska, visited Spain and been all over Europe & Asia, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean. She had many stories to share of her travels and the people she met along the way. She enjoyed foods from many nations. Among her accomplishments, Monique, Jack and another Veteran started the first Korean War Veterans Association in Ocala. She had been the President for several years. She was also V.P. of the Air Force Sergeants Association. She donated to many causes including the SPCA, American Indian Children. She loved both Children and animals. The elephant was her favorite animal of all, as she lived amongst them in Congo. She said they were gentle and graceful for such a large animal! Monique was "extremely cultured" and loved the Ballet, Opera, and Broadway shows. She was able to attend Chen Yuen in Orlando just a few years ago. Her musical taste ran from Pavorotti to Elton John, Country, Jazz and Pop. Her favorite movies were old Westerns. Particularly with John Wayne in them. Her favorite color was black, because it was so very chic'. She will be missed by those of us who knew and loved her. She was truly one of a kind. She leaves behind Sister in Law, Mrs. Joyce Gleason of New Jersey. (Nephews Brian & Family, Patrick & Family. Niece & God Daughter Erin.) Sister in Law, Mrs. Ruth Smith of California, (Niece Cheryl & Family, Nephew Jim & Family). Also her best friend Wayne Smith of C.A. as well as dear friends Santos & Marie Sepia of Belleview. Her God Daughter Holly Hargett (Michael) of Clearwater FL. Her dear (pet kitty) Bella. Lifelong friends the Arnett family and Caitlin O'Connor.

Monique Gleason

September 23, 1940 - June 4, 2022