Monica Evelyn Norwood (Evelyn Smith), age 86, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. She was surrounded by her loving family and lifelong friends. Born on June 27, 1938, in Macklin, Saskatchewan, Canada, Monica lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community.
Monica began her professional journey as a preschool teacher with Jeffco Public Schools. Her passion for early childhood education led her to become the Director of the Steele Street PreSchool in Denver—one of the city’s first non-profit, parent-cooperative preschools. She poured her heart into nurturing young minds and was deeply devoted to the hundreds of children who passed through her classrooms. In the 1970s, Monica became an enthusiastic advocate for the Love and Logic Parenting philosophy. After taking numerous classes herself, she went on to teach many others in this whole-child, research-based approach that has since gained global recognition among parents and educators.
Later in life, Monica embarked on a second career working alongside Attorney Barry Roseman as a paralegal specializing in employment law. For fifteen years, she brought empathy and determination to her work, passionately supporting clients navigating workplace challenges.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Monica was known for her vibrant presence in every community she touched. A devoted member of St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church in Littleton for over 35 years, she found deep meaning in fellowship and service. Whether making baby blankets for newborns, serving as a Lay Eucharistic Visitor, or tending to the church’s Community Garden, Monica gave generously of her time and spirit.
She and her husband Hugh also enjoyed many active years at the Englewood Elks Lodge where she served as President of the Ladies Auxiliary and volunteered countless hours toward their charitable efforts. She and Hugh also embarked upon many years of travel and adventure together.
Gardening was one of Monica’s greatest joys. She created lush and elaborate gardens at every home she lived in—spaces filled with color and care where she somehow convinced her grandchildren that weeding was fun!
Monica loved to throw a party — or join one — and would always bring together family and friends for holiday get-togethers, Broncos and Super Bowl parties and numerous birthday celebrations! One of her favorite ongoing events was what we called Grandma Camp — having 1 or 2, or even all 6 grandkids over and rotating them through crafts, baking, slip-n-slide (and weeding)! She spent many years with us camping, enjoying high tea with the girls, or simply sharing meals around the family table.
Monica is lovingly remembered by her husband Hugh Norwood; son David (and Morgan) Smith; daughter Arlene (and Marc) Lalouette; son-in-law Chris (and Cathy Bellem) Wera; beloved grandchildren Mayson, Jacques, Juliane, Campbell, Isabelle and Nicolas; many nieces and nephews; her brother and sister; as well as the six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren she joyfully shared with Hugh. Monica was a ‘bonus mom’ and ‘bonus grandma’ to a special few as well.
She was preceded in death by her daughter Alison Anne Werasmith; sister Jane Pinter; parents Anthony and Rose Winterhalt.
Monica Evelyn Norwood leaves behind a legacy of love rooted in family bonds, educational advocacy, spiritual devotion, and joyful community engagement. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her and continue to inspire acts of kindness for generations to come.
A Memorial Service will be held on June 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church 6653 W Chatfield Ave, Littleton. Luncheon Reception to follow. Please RSVP (vm or text) Arlene @ (949)607-6505
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