Monica Ellen Mayper, 72, a longtime resident of Eastern, New York, passed away on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at her home surrounded by friends and family.
She was preceded by her parents, Stuart and Lois (Rossignol) Mayper, and her partner, Martha Geissinger. She is survived by her brother Thomas Maple of Reading, Connecticut, his wife Laurie, their two children Shay and Marion, and her two beloved cats, Rosie and Pippi.
She was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, raised in Fairfield, Connecticut, and graduated from Reed College in Portland, Oregon. A former senior copy director at Disney’s Hyperion Books and a former senior production editor at HarperCollins Children’s Books, she is the author of four children’s books, the last of which, Nights at the Beach, was published in 2022 to critical acclaim. A “poet in practice,” she is widely known and loved for her literary talent and proficiency, as well as her zest for life. Her positive attitude, optimism and perseverance during her courageous two-year battle with pancreatic cancer were an inspiration to all who knew her.
A favorite saying is: “The table and the pleasures of life are endless—toujours, bon appetite!” -Julia Child.
Orient Congregational Church will hold a funeral. Details will be announced soon.
Horton-Mathie Funeral Home in Greenport is assisting the family.
This is a paid notice.