Monica M. Goughenour

Monica M. Goughenour, 50, of Trenton, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2020 at Christ Hospital. She was born on June 15, 1969 to parents Donald and Pamela (Foreman) Mathews.

She adored her family and will be greatly missed by her sons, Travis (Jessica) Mathews & Garrett Johnson; daughter, Candice Johnson; grandchildren, Macayla Bloom, Alexander Johnson & Aurora Johnson; mother Pamela (Jim) Fasimpaur; sister Melissa (Troy); and brother, Michael (Debara) Mathews. She was preceded in death by her father.

Monica was only with us for such a short time. Her earthly body grew weak and weary until she was called home to greatness. They say the good ones always die young; this is true in the case of Monica. Monica loved fearlessly and never met a stranger. She would give so much of herself, even when she had nothing left. Whether it was her students from Head Start to the ‘friends’ at the Ronald McDonald House, she would give anything she could to help.

Monica was always a protector. As the oldest, Monica was caught in the middle of her younger siblings, squabbles. She would step in as the mediator. The relationship between Monica and her siblings is tied not only by blood but also by friendship. Her friends held a special place in her heart. They were not bound by blood, but a family none the less. Monica became a mother at a young age and embraced the role of motherhood. She enjoyed spending time with her children. While being a mother was one of her most significant accomplishments, being a Gran Gran was her biggest blessings. Monica loved being a Gran Gran and was so thankful to be blessed with the opportunity to help raise her first grandchild. Unfortunately, she won’t be there in her earthly body to help raise the rest of the grandchildren, but her legacy will live on through stories and memories.

Monica fought a fierce battle for so many years, yet through it all, she was joyful. She had a relationship with God that brought her peace in her darkest times. Monica loved cruising and spending time at the beach. She found solace in the tenacity of the waves coming ashore while always being pushed away. She found comfort in the connection between the sunset and the water. Just as the tides in the ocean, for every joy that passes, something beautiful remains; this is true for Monica, while she has passed, her legacy remains.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Ronald McDonald House.