Monica Arleen Fields

It is with immense sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Monica Arleen Fields (Darden), who bravely concluded her third courageous battle with cancer on December 6th, 2025. Her journey through life was a testament to strength, love, and unwavering dedication, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Born on August 5th, 1964, in Fayetteville, NC, Monica was the cherished daughter of William Macy Darden Sr. and the late Novella Deloise Darden (Brown). Her early childhood was uniquely shaped by her father's military service, leading the family to Thailand where Monica spent her first four formative years. By 1968, the Darden family found their permanent roots in Piscataway, NJ, where Monica blossomed. During her school years, she discovered a passion for music and camaraderie as a proud member of the marching band, an activity that brought her great joy.

Monica’s youth was rich with familial bonds, growing up alongside her three sisters, and a close-knit circle of cousins, aunts, and uncles in New Jersey. Summers were a cherished tradition, spent in her parents' hometown of Suffolk, Virginia, further deepening her connections with extended family. Her innate talent and passion for hair styling not only brought her personal satisfaction but also proved invaluable as she lovingly raised her five daughters. This natural artistry was a reflection of her nurturing spirit.

Monica was an entrepreneur at heart and pursued many business ventures over the years. Following in her mother’s dedicated footsteps, Monica embarked on a distinguished career with the Postal Service, where she committed 32 years of service. Her professionalism, reliability, and warm spirit made her a valued colleague and a cornerstone of her workplace. However, it was in her role as a mother and grandmother that Monica truly shone. She was a devoted, loving, and ever-present force in the lives of her children and grandchildren, instilling in them values of kindness, perseverance, and unconditional love. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting presence of her unwavering support.

Monica's beautiful spirit and profound impact will be profoundly missed by her loving father, William Macy Darden Sr; her sisters, Fredricka Darden, Lisa Briener (Larry Briener), and Cynthia Collins (Larry Collins); her children, Adrienne Darden, Cristal Darden, Jennifer Fields, Veronica Fields, Ieasha Fields, and Jeffrey Fields Jr (Ashlinn Fields).; and her adoring grandchildren, William Darden 2nd, Shaniya Cook, Warner Cook (Trey), Lyric Squire, Braxton Darden, and Dakota Sanders. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and boundless love that will continue to inspire and guide us. Though her physical presence is gone, the love she shared and the memories we hold dear will forever live in our hearts.

With deepest sympathy,

The Family

A viewing will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025 9 a.m., followed by a homegoing celebration beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Canaan Baptist Church. She will be laid to rest at Carver Memorial Cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home.