Mona L. Kernagis

A cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend has passed. To each of these roles, Mona Kernagis brought kindness and care, grace and love. Though each family member has their own special memories of Mona, her grandchildren have penned what made her so remarkable to them, and it's their words that get to the heart of her heart and how she inspired their young lives to take shape into the people they are and the love and goodness they, too, will give throughout their lives, a loving testament to honor her memory. These are Nani's loves, and these are the words they give back to Nani as she now takes her rest in their hearts with love that will reside in them always.

"We love Nani because…"

-  "She always makes time to see us."

-  "She always has a witty comeback."

-  "She has a hint of Texas in her voice!"

-  "She never gives up."

-  "She's really good at board games and Grace has to cheat to beat her."

-  "She is the most kind person in the entire world."

-  "She taught us to love reading by always sharing books with us."

-  "She makes us love Christmas more because our whole tree is filled with ornaments from her."

-  "She has the coolest Star Trek ornaments."

-  "She made us love flowers and gardens."

-  "She gave us our deep-rooted love for pickles!"

-  "She introduced us to Harry Potter."

-  "She turned us into huge Harry Potter nerds!"

-  "She's a great cook and makes killer chicken and dumplings!"

-  "She gave us great hands and nails!"

-  "She taught us how to love unconditionally."

-  "She's our greatest role model."

-  "She is the strongest person we know."

-  "She loves the good ice!"

-  "She is always making us smile."

Mona Lisa 'Nani' Merritt Kernagis passed away August 2, 2024 leaving behind an enduring legacy of love and perseverance that will live on in her husband Tony of 55 years; her children, Tony Kernagis and Kristine (Jon) Leetz; her seven grandchildren: Max, Isabella, Maggie, Grace, Ian, Charlotte, and Josephine; her siblings Lance Merritt, Wesley (Robin) Merritt, Beth (Mike) Fitz, and Roy (Shanna) Merritt; nieces and nephews; and large extended family–all of whom loved Mona for her warmth and cheerful nature. Mona was preceded in death by her youngest brother Lewis Merritt. Even as she battled a double lung transplant six years ago and made countless trips thereafter to hospitals and clinics, her heart remained filled with gratitude for every day she remained with her family. She was surrounded by her beloved family who flocked to her side to be with her as she passed.

Mona was proud to be a member of the following:

-  The Jamestowne Society

-  The Daughters of the Republic of Texas

-  The Baronial Order of Magna Carta

-  Order of the Crown of Charlemagne

A grateful transplant survivor, Mona donated, as a final act of generosity, her corneas–the only organs she was able to contribute. Someone somewhere will be able to look upon the world Mona loved with her gift.

In lieu of flowers/gifts, her family requests donations in Mona's name to the Transplant House of Cleveland .

A private family Memorial Service will be held.