Monica Scuticchio
(née Dowdall)

I have such wonderful memories of Auntie Monica from sitting at my Granny Peggy’s dining room to visiting her in Carlsbad. She always had a smile on her face and open arms for a hug.
I visited her while I was on a J1 in Santa Barbara and her and Joe brought me out to lovely restaurants for lunches and dinners, such a treat while living as a student! And the homemade meals especially the salad with blueberries in it.
I was also lucky enough to join them on their daily walk around the reservoir, so impressed by Auntie Monica striding on at a very decent pace! They lead a simple yet beautiful life together.
We wrote to each other and sent cards over the years and I was very happy that she had a photo of my daughter on her fridge, a pride of place, even tho she never met her she loved her as she was family. And that was Monica through and through she loved her family here in Ireland and in America and always kept us connected. I will miss her very much xx

I first met Monica over 50 years ago through her niece Anne Marie. I had heard all about her some years earlier (I was about 10 or 11 and very impressionable) when she was in Dar-es-Salaam. She was so exotic, brave, adventurous and inspirational, she really broadened my horizons and imagination. I have many memories and stories related to her and I am very grateful she touched my life and very sad she's gone now. May she rest in peace and be remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew her. Love and condolences to all her family especially Clare. Mary D. (Kosangas)

Here in Carlsbad, Monica was remarkable for her humor,kindness and warm rapport with everyone lucky enough to have her cross their path. She and Joe were such a pair! I clearly only saw the tip of the iceberg of what a remarkable woman she was because she did not brag about her past experiences, but i am grateful that she graced my life.

The last time we visited with you Auntie Mon, was in Escondido with Liam , your brother. We were treated to a sumptuous lunch under a Waterford crystal chandelier.I was impressed. We both were . My only regret is that we lost touch over the years . All but one is now left , your baby sister Clare. It’s safe to say we looked up to you in so many ways , I loved that you traveled and lived an adventurous life ,not your average life for a lady of your generation. You were class personified and as a kid I learned a lot about life outside of Ireland and all it’s wonderful possibilities, thank you and God speed .

Auntie Monica,

You brought great joy to my life as a young girl. I thought you were so regal and admired you greatly. Once you gave me a ring (that was costume jewelry) and I thought it was one of your many jewels, lol...many daydreams around that ring. You will be truly missed.
Your God daughter always,

A woman who shaped me profoundly, though I barely knew her in person. One of my greatest loves in life is cooking — a gift from my mother, Anne Marie. My mother’s spark for cooking was first kindled in the exotic kitchens of her Aunty Monica in Dar es Salaam. I owe so much to this wonderful woman, and I hope my children will too. May her story never cease to be told.

We are so deeply saddened about Monica's passing. She was so dear to me and I cherish all the visits I had with her in Carlsbad and the time my daughter Molly got to spend with her. Monica was a very special lady, full of kindness and warmth. I miss her so much and would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Scuticchio family for caring for my wonderful great-aunt Monica. Sending lots of love from Ireland. Lisa

Rest in peace Aunty Monica I have such fond memories of you in my life and the times you spent with my Mum and my Dad your brother Sonny. You had a remarkable life definitely a life well lived love from Ruth.

Sleep well, Auntie Monica. You had a long and wonderful life. As you so often said “been there, done that”! You were always so kind and supportive to me from your visits to Cabra Rd., our trips to East Africa, South America and more recently Carlsbad. I enjoyed our lovely chats and will miss them. I know you’re at peace now with all your loved ones, especially Uncle Liam and Uncle Joe. As Auntie Joan used to say “you don’t strike gold twice” but you did! Goodnight and God Bless, Auntie Monica, all my love, Anne Marie xx

Good night Auntie Monica ,rest well in the arms of your beloved Joe. I will always remember the times when I was younger,Id go with my mum (Gay) your sister ,shopping and pick out something nice to send you.We would pick a cosy sweater or jacket & go to the post office to send it to you in California. You were always so kind & kept in touch with us. Mum loved your cards for all the holidays.
Rest in Peace.xx