Monai L. Ethridge

Heaven just got a little louder, a whole lot flashier, and significantly more well-fed.

The Early Chapters: A Star is Born

Monai (Bloom) Ethridge was born to Iris Ann Bloom and Roy Roberts on October 11, 1965. She often credited parents — along with her beloved late grandparents, Joe and Willa Williams — for what she called “a wonderful childhood.” Her upbringing laid the foundation for the big-hearted, full-of-life woman we all came to know and love.

Monai was baptized at Calvary Hill Baptist Church as a youth, where she joined the choir and soaked in the message of love and compassion, lessons she would go on to live every single day. Her walk with Christ began there, and she never stopped spreading HIS light.

Brains, Beauty, and a Whole Lotta Heart

Monai attended Cleveland Public Schools and graduated from John Hay High School in 1983. That same year, she took her first steps into the professional world, joining the Jane Edna Social Services organization. For over a decade, she dedicated herself to helping others with unwavering passion. Her nurturing spirit eventually led her into the healthcare field, where she worked as an STNA for over 20 years.

But her greatest legacy was the care she gave to children — her own, and everyone else’s. Whether it was her grandkids, nephew, cousins, friends of her daughters, or the children of her closest friends, Monai was always there. Known affectionately as a second mom, grandma, Auntie Monai, or Nae Nae, she was a constant source of warmth and support.

And we would be remiss if we didn’t mention how she, along with her sister, selflessly cared for their ill mother, offering daily support until her passing in January of this year. She also held a special place in her heart for her late nephew Landon, whose memory she cherished deeply.

A Whole Vibe: The Life, The Look, The Love

Let’s be honest — Monai was the moment. She was EXTRA in the best way. Fancy nails? Always. Fly wigs and lashes? Absolutely. If there was a holiday, you were at Monai’s house — eating good and feeling even better. She cooked like it was her superpower and loved like it was her mission.

She was the life of every party, the soul of every gathering, and the warmest hug you ever received. Monai didn’t just open her home — she opened her heart. Whether you needed a place to stay, a plate to eat, or just a kind word to keep going, Monai gave, even when she had little left for herself.

A Legacy of Love

Monai leaves behind a legacy steeped in love, laughter, and lip gloss — the kind of legacy that lingers long after the music stops, and the last plate is cleared.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 33 years, Robert Ethridge, who stood by her side through every sparkle, every storm, and every dinner.

Her beautiful daughters, who were her most cherished blessings and greatest treasures —Valencia, lovingly known as Lacey (son-in-law Herb); Paige; Taylor; and Ashlyn—each carry a piece of Monai’s strength, sass, and soul. Kahley Jones (and three children), whom Monai raised as her own, was not just her chosen/family daughter but a true piece of Monai’s heart.

Her grandchildren — Troy, Lorne “Lolo,” and Elena — were her pride, her joy, and often the reason her smile shined just a little brighter. She poured endless love into them, and they returned it tenfold.   She also loved and cherished time spent with her sweet Grand-Dog, Benji, and Grand-Cat, Sugar.

Monai also leaves behind her beloved sister Jameka Bloom (Mimi), who shared her love and laughter and leaned on her wisdom; her stepmother, Roberta Roberts, and her mother-in-law, Deborah Ethridge.

Monai was like a big sister to her cousins, especially the children of her beloved aunts, Lynn and Sharon (Tete). She was always there to protect, love, and care for them with an unwavering devotion. She made sure they never felt alone, always offering support and reassurance.

And of course, she is remembered fondly by her three-forever sister-friends — Crystal, Angelique “Sugie,” and Samekcreia “Mekie” — women who knew every chapter of her story and helped her write some of the best ones.

A host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, and loved ones remain, each holding onto their own special “Monai moment.” Whether it was a warm meal, a shared belly laugh, a thoughtful gift, or the perfect word of encouragement at just the right time, those memories will be treasured and passed down for generations.

Monai wasn’t just part of our lives — she was woven into our hearts. And that is where she will forever remain.

Final Words? Just One: FABULOUS.

Monai was one of a kind — and we don’t just say that lightly. She was fabulous, fierce, and full of faith. She lived loud, laughed hard, and loved harder. While we will miss her dearly, we know that Heaven just got a new angel with a fresh set of lashes and a crockpot full of something delicious.

Rest well, Monai. You were/are truly unforgettable.

Humby Submitted,

Her Family