Monica Rose (Savel) Gribus

Monica Rose Gribus, 69, was called home to the Lord on Sunday, January 4, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Conneaut, Ohio, she was the cherished daughter of Ruth (Svec) and John Savel. A 1974 graduate of Pymatuning Valley High School, Monica was a proud cheerleader throughout her four years and graduated as class valedictorian and was a member of the National Honor Society. Her warmth, intelligence, and joyful spirit shone brightly even in her youth and continued to inspire everyone blessed to know her.

On December 15, 1984, Monica married the love of her life, E. James (“Jim”) Gribus. Together, they shared a marriage rooted deeply in love, friendship, and unwavering Catholic faith. Monica was blessed with her beloved daughter, Shannon, and her “favorite” son-in-law, Ian. Together, Monica and Jim were further blessed with three amazing grandchildren who filled their hearts and home with laughter, music, and endless love.

A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Monica lived her life in service to God and others. From a very young age, she discovered the divine gift of music within her soul. At just eight years old, Monica began her musical ministry at Our Lady of Victory Parish in Andover, playing the organ and lending her angelic voice to glorify God. For 56 years, she faithfully served as a musical liturgist at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, St. Francis Cabrini, and St. Mary’s, and spent her summers sharing her gifts and talents with the congregation at First Presbyterian Church in Ashtabula.

Being in church was Monica’s “happy place,” and she never gave less than her very best. Her voice—clear, pure, and full of grace—was her ministry. It lifted hearts, comforted souls, and filled sanctuaries with peace. Alongside her faithful husband, Jim, Monica lived a life devoted to serving others, generously giving of their time, talents, and treasures to those in need. Together, their lives were a testament to faith in action, humility, and love.

In recognition of her lifetime of service in the Diocese of Youngstown, Monica was honored in 1982 with the Pope Pius X Award for her dedication and enduring ministry in sacred music.

Music was her passion, but her faith was her foundation. Whether leading hymns at Mass or singing softly with her grandchildren, Monica celebrated life through melody and prayer. Becoming a grandmother brought her immeasurable joy, and she treasured every moment spent surrounded by her family’s love. Monica was creative, an avid reader, and loved the color purple. She also enjoyed baking, solving word puzzles, shopping, and attending her grandchildren’s extracurricular activities.

Monica is survived by her devoted husband, Jim; her beloved daughter, Shannon (Ian) Ball; grandchildren Braden, Brynleigh, and Kiptin; stepdaughter Juli (Matthew) Powers; brothers John A. Savel, Jim (Joey) Savel, and Mark (Denise) Savel; and several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ruth Savel; her grandparents, Agnes and Andro Svec and Elizabeth and Joseph Savel; several aunts and uncles; and her stepson, Kevin Gribus.

Family and friends may gather for calling hours on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Fleming–Billman Funeral Home, 49 W. Jefferson St., Jefferson, Ohio.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 929 Pearl Rd., Brunswick, Ohio.
Following a luncheon at the church, Monica will be laid to rest in the mausoleum at St. Joseph Cemetery in Ashtabula.

May her beautiful voice now join the heavenly chorus, singing praises forever in the presence of the Lord she loved so dearly.

Memorial contributions can be made in her name to The Milan Society of St. Ambrose Church or to the Richland Academy of the Arts, envelopes will be available at the funeral home and church.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Monica Rose (Savel) Gribus, please visit our floral store.