In Loving Memory of Mona Kizer! A Devoted Mother, Cherished Friend, and Radiant Soul

Mona Kizer, born Mona Duncan to Kenneth and Brenda Murray in Cleveland, Ohio, left this world surrounded by love. Mona attended both East Cleveland and Cleveland schools, ultimately graduating from Collinwood High School. But if you knew Mona, you knew her heart forever bled red—she was a die-hard Shaw Cardinal, Class of ’88.

In her early years, Mona dedicated herself fully to raising her children, providing them with the love, strength, and joy that defined who she was. Over the years, she explored various career paths, but her heart found a true home in the medical field, where she devoted over 10 years to Lake Health and University Hospitals. She cherished her job and the people she worked alongside, often speaking of them as her extended family.

Mona’s vibrant personality was unmistakable. Whether she was jamming to her favorite music—fingers snapping in rhythm—or spending time with her beloved fur baby, Demi, she did everything with joy. She found peace in coloring, painting, and recently discovered a passion for cosmetology, which brought her even more happiness and creativity.

Her charisma, infectious smile, and joyful goofiness lit up every room she entered. Mona’s fiery spirit may have made people fall for her, but it was her deep compassion and unwavering love that kept everyone close. Known as “Mama Mona” to many, she was the nurturing figure others turned to—offering wisdom, comfort, and a warm hug when needed.

Mona is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Lottie and James Murray; her maternal grandparents, Katherine, and Jerry Duncan; her father, Kenneth Murray; her brother, Kenneth Murray Jr.; and her beloved son, De’Andre Kizer.

She leaves behind her loving mother, Brenda Murray; her former husband, Antony Kizer; her children: Antony Kizer (Aj), Dominique Kizer, and Antonio Kizer (Tony); God daughter, Briana Tucker, and her treasured grandchildren: Sir Davionn Magbie (Sir), I’vanna Kizer, Antony (King) Kizer, Day’vi Burney, and Ace Kizer. Also mourning her loss are Aunt Frankie (Frank) Duncan, Uncle Sylvester (Sharon) Sullivan, sister/cousins Vanessa Duncan and Carlisha Murray, her nieces Kiara, Kenices, and Xiaolin, her bestie and sister Ruschelle Jennings, her best friend Nakia (Nic) and a host of family and friends, and her loyal dog, Demi.

Mona’s legacy of love, laughter, and strength will live on in all who were lucky enough to know her. Her spirit, fierce and beautiful, will never be forgotten.