Marie Monique Martial
Obituary
Marie Monique Martial, best known as Monique or "Mon", was born on 17 August 1935 in Choiseul, St Lucia, and passed away peacefully on 5 March 2026 at the age of 90. A longtime resident of Croydon, London, Monique will be fondly remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Of small stature but immense spirit, Monique's fiery personality was matched only by her boundless kindness. Family always came first for Monique, and her warmth provided strength and comfort to all who knew her. Married to Stephen Martial for over 40 years until his passing in 2005, Monique's memory will be treasured by all those who knew her - from her family and extended family to her many friends and acquaintances she touched throughout her life. Her legacy of care, dedication, and love continues in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
A funeral service to celebrate Monique's life will be held at St Andrew's Roman Catholic Church, Thornton Heath, at 10:00 am on Wednesday 15th of April, 2026. All who knew her are welcome to attend and share in remembering her remarkable life. For those unable to join there will be a virtually streamed service (from 10:00 www.churchservices.tv/thorntonheath). Please feel encouraged to use the Memory Wall feature below to share photos, stories and memories of Monique - we'd love to hear and read them all. With love, the Martials x
Timeline
1935
Born in Choiseul, St Lucia
Monique was born on the 17th August in Choiseul to Auchilien Francois Pierre and Alexandrine Smith, both labourers from Morne Sion. Monique was third of eleven siblings: Marie "Aunty Mary" (1931), Diana (1933), Paulicia "Louesta" (1937), Alexander "Rudence" 1939, Cornelius (1941), Joseph "Ruddy" (1943), Adrian (1945), Cleo (1947), Aurelia (1949) and Romiel (1951).
1958
Moved to London, newly wed to Steve and first born arrival, Colin
Having moved to London the year before, in 1958 Monique and Stephen exchanged vows and welcomed their first son into the world, Colin, who was born in Lambeth, South London.
London
1959
Second born arrival, Arthur
The following summer Monique and Stephen welcomed their second child, Arthur, on the 16th of July.
1996
First grandchild, Maya
On the 30th May 1996 Monique became a grandmother for the first time as Arthur and Julia had their first child, Maya.
1997
Second grandchild, Alex
On the 31st October 1997 Monique welcomed her second grandchild, Alex, as Colin and Jane had their first child.
2002
Third grandchild, Zoe
On the 21st February 2002 Monique welcomed her third grandchild, Zoe, who was Colin and Jane’s second and final child.
2004
Fourth grandchild, Chaya
On the 14th September 2004 Monique welcomed her forth grandchild, Chaya, who was Arthur and Julia’s second child.
2005
Husband Steve passes
On the 25th February 2005 Monique’s husband, Stephen Joseph Martial passed away.
2005
Fifth grandchild, Eden
On the 19th October 2005 Monique welcomed her fifth and final grandchild, Eden - Arthur and Julia’s third and final child.
2023
First great-grandchild, Noah
On the 5th November 2023 Monique became a great-grandmother for the first time, as Chaya welcomed to the world Noah.
2025
Second great-grandchild, Kouvr
On the 29th April 2025 Monique’s second great-grandchild was born, Kouvr, who was Maya's first born.
2025
Monique's magnificent 90th
On the 16th August 2025 Colin and Arthur organised a big 90th birthday celebration for Monique at the Ravensbury in Mitcham. A real dancing queen, Monique was joined by 50+ loving friends and family to celebrate her life and this key milestone age.
2026
Mass, Burial and Wake
On Wednesday 15th April friends, family and community members (including the St Lucian Association of London) came to pay their respects to Monique at the St Andrew's Royal Catholic Church in Thornton Heath, a 5 minute drive from where Monique lived. A large contingent then joined the family at Croydon Cemetery and Crematorium, where Monique was laid to rest alongside her late husband Steve. Friends, family and guests then celebrated her life at her wake, which took place locally at The Ravensbury - the same venue where Monique celebrated her 90th.
2026
Reunited with Steve
After a few days at St George"s hospital in Tooting, Monique is finally reunited with her husband Steve on March 5th. Before her passing, dozens of friends and family paid visits to send their love and thanks.
Gallery
Memory wall
Post a message or share your memories and photos of Monique. We'd love to hear and read your stories.
April 18, 2026
I grew up hearing my mother, Mary, speak so fondly of her younger sister, Monique, a deep love and admiration for her grew in my heart long before I truly knew her. That love was so strong that when I had my firstborn daughter, I named her Monique in her honor.
When my dear Aunty Monique finally made the long-awaited trip to Canada, I had the joy and privilege of spending precious time with her. She was gentle, fun-loving, encouraging, and always carried such a positive spirit about life. Her warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone around her.
I know my dear Aunty is resting peacefully, awaiting that glorious resurrection morning when the Lord will return to take His faithful children home. On that great waking-up morning, there will be no more tears, no more sorrow, and no more separation. What a joyful and blessed day that will be for all of us.
When my dear Aunty Monique finally made the long-awaited trip to Canada, I had the joy and privilege of spending precious time with her. She was gentle, fun-loving, encouraging, and always carried such a positive spirit about life. Her warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone around her.
I know my dear Aunty is resting peacefully, awaiting that glorious resurrection morning when the Lord will return to take His faithful children home. On that great waking-up morning, there will be no more tears, no more sorrow, and no more separation. What a joyful and blessed day that will be for all of us.
April 17, 2026
10th April 2025, I had just arrived back from 6 months solo travelling in Latin America. I enjoyed catching up with grandma and special guests, Yvonne and Sarah. Everywhere I’d been, grandma said she’d been already - I was following in her footsteps after all and very proud of that :)
April 17, 2026
My last photo of grandma Monique on NYE 2025. We enjoyed going on short walks near the house, fuelled by cups of tea and coffee (black for grandma, of course). She looked so beautiful in the winter sun and loved telling me stories about her neighbours and the changes in the area. I will miss you so much, grandma. Love from your ZoZo
April 17, 2026
My last photo of my grandma Monique, taken January 2nd, was the day we popped over to say hello and pick up Dad’s (Colin’s) car to drive up to Peterborough to pick up our new baby kitten. Since I was knee height she always stood at the front door or gate and waved us off. Never knew this wave would be our last one. Rest well my love🕊️💙
April 16, 2026
Monique and Steve
Monica … my young mind was so pleased that my best friend’s mum had the “same” name as my mum, it felt special. Monique and Steve are special. Being in and around their home as a very young boy and beyond I had great role models. I never really knew my dad and when it comes up, I say I don’t think it has affected me. I am sure that in no small way this is because I got to witness and be part of the loving nuclear family life provide by Monique and Steve. X X
Monica … my young mind was so pleased that my best friend’s mum had the “same” name as my mum, it felt special. Monique and Steve are special. Being in and around their home as a very young boy and beyond I had great role models. I never really knew my dad and when it comes up, I say I don’t think it has affected me. I am sure that in no small way this is because I got to witness and be part of the loving nuclear family life provide by Monique and Steve. X X
April 16, 2026
What a wonderful send off for a wonderful lady. I have so many memories of evenings spent at Cambridge Road playing music and talking in to the night. You had the patience of a Saint! You certainly enjoyed life with all your travels and your love of entertaining. You will be missed Monique. RIP
April 15, 2026
Dear Monique - Rest in eternal peace. I will miss popping in to say "hi" to you on my way to my GP appointment - never a quick visit as we normally chatted for hours - quite a treat. My mum too, Elsa, will miss spending time with you on her vacation.
April 15, 2026
Rachel hosted lunch at her place with father Patrick Antony. One of the many great memories. My sister, I miss you dearly. Love Laurena.
April 15, 2026
Sleep over with cousin Maya at Nanny Laurena’s house
April 15, 2026
Aunty Monique was there the day I was born and one of the first people to hold me. Rest in eternal peace. Love you lots Aunty.
April 14, 2026
My dear,dear friend. We go back along time. I remembered the first time we met and our friendship have lasted until your last days. You were a woman of integrity, honesty ,godly and a beautiful soul. May the good Lord receive you in His kingdom. Rest well my friend until me meet.
Service
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to Monique. While we mourn the loss of our dear Mon, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy she brought into our lives. Please RSVP below if you'd wish to join the service in person. Alternatively there will be an online service for those who cannot make it in person and wish to join online for remembrance and reflection.
Donate
In honour of our beloved Monique, we invite you to contribute to the Alzheimer's Society - an amazing cause close to the Martials. Your generous donation will serve as a meaningful tribute, perpetuating the spirit of Monique by supporting a meaningful cause.
Link to donate is here: www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/donate/forget-me-not-appeal
Link to donate is here: www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/donate/forget-me-not-appeal
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