Monica Syndel Wilson Weatherhead Pope, 65, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Monica spent her early childhood in the Tampa Bay area before making Jacksonville her home for most of her adult life.
Monica’s life was defined by her strong work ethic and her ability to connect with people. She began her career as a waitress before becoming an Avon representative, where she rose to the role of district manager. She later worked for Visit Jacksonville as an information specialist, a role that reflected her welcoming nature and love for sharing her city with others.
She was lighthearted and full of personality, with a presence that could be both warm and intense. Monica had a well-known love for coffee, always hot and always black, and rarely without a cup in hand. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures such as thrift shopping, relaxing at the beach, and enjoying her favorite meals of surf and turf, always with a love for chocolate close behind. She was known for her spirited tradition of dressing up as a witch every Halloween, something those who knew her will always remember with a smile.
Above all else, Monica was deeply proud of her family. She was a devoted mother to her three children, Kerry Weatherhead, Shannon Pope, and Natasha Simmons, and a loving grandmother to Julian, Makayla, Ezra, and Luna, whom she adored and spoke of often.
Monica was preceded in death by her husband, Robert George Pope. She is also survived by her sister, Marsha, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.
In accordance with her wishes, Monica will be honored through organ donation and cremation. A private gathering will be held by her children to celebrate her life, with her ashes to be spread into the open waters.
Monica will be remembered for her spirit, her love for her family, and the little traditions that made her uniquely her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.






I am so sorry to hear about Monica’s passing. I worked with her for a few years at Visit Jacksonville. She was always so nice and especially to the visitors that came in. Praying for Kerry and her family! 🙏
Love you Monica Florida 💞
Love,
Joby & Tamika Milton
My condolences to the family. Monica was always a joy to see and talk to when I attended events at the I 95 welcome center. Such a sweet woman. RIP Monica.
Be free and rest in peace my dear.
Kerry and Family, I hate hearing this news but find comfort knowing she is no longer in any kind of pain. Monica was always so kind to me. Even though I haven’t worked with her for quite some time, I thought of her often and she will be missed. Prayers, love and comfort for your family.
I had the opportunity to know Monica for the better half of my life. She will be missed greatly. Rest easy my sweet friend . I love you. Prayers to your family and grandbabies that you were so proud of. You are and will always be a gem!