Obituary of Carole Lou Monahan

Carole L. Monahan, age 91, of Lebanon Township, N.J., passed away peacefully at the Hunterdon Care Center in Flemington, N.J., on Saturday, November 22, 2025.

She was born on February 26, 1934, in Newark, N.J., the daughter of John and Gertrude (Schmidt) Bulgrien. On July 13, 1953, Carole married Walter R. Monahan, who predeceased her on October 1, 1994. Together, they raised four boys.

Before the birth of her first son, Carole worked for Braun and Chamberlain Co. in Orange, N.J. After her sons were all in school, she returned to work at North Hunterdon Regional High School in the cafeteria as a cashier, a position she retired from years later.

In her spare time, Carole loved reading, especially mystery and thriller novels, tending to her flower gardens, and caring for her violets. She and Walter cherished their yearly vacations to Cape Hatteras, where they camped on the beach. They also enjoyed cruises, including memorable trips to Bermuda. Following retirement, Carole and Walter joined the Hunterdon Hillbillies Camping Club and treasured the many outings spent with “the crew.”

Carole seldom missed her favorite soap opera, General Hospital; everything in the house paused when it came on.

She is survived by her children: Michael P. Monahan of Mainesburg, PA; Gary (Diane) of Atlantic Highlands, N.J.; Kevin (Marie) of Kunkletown, PA; and Brian (Cindy) of Lebanon Township, NJ

Carole was also loved by her 7 grandchildren, 1 step-grandchild, 17 great-grandchildren, and 3 step great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents, John F. Bulgrien Jr. and Gertrude (Schmidt) Bulgrien Albert, as well as her in-laws, Mary and Michael J. Monahan.

In honoring Carole’s wishes, all services were private under the care of Martin Funeral Home, Clinton NJ.