Obituaries

Naomi F. Monahan Polishan, 77, a lifelong resident of West Scranton, died Thursday night surrounded by her children at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton. She was the wife of her high school sweetheart, the late John S. Polishan. The couple was married just shy of 50 years at the time of John’s death in 2016.

Born on Feb. 19, 1947, daughter of the late Martin and Naomi Nichols Monahan, Naomi – affectionately referred to as “Sis” by all who knew and loved her – personified beauty, grace and class. An exemplary wife, mother, grandmother and friend, she embodied the best qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit, devotion to family and community, and a wicked Irish wit.
A 1964 graduate of West Scranton High School, she was deeply involved in high school activities, performing in school plays; serving as treasurer of the thespian club; and was a card-carrying member of the school’s library club. In addition to her academic and artistic talents, she was also an athlete, competing in roller skating dance competitions as a child and bowling at the semi-professional level as an adult.
A sales representative for RJ Reynolds in her later years, her most important role in life was raising her three children to be independent, compassionate and caring adults. As a fiercely proud and loving grandmother, she never missed a game or a school activity. And when she wasn’t taking care of her own children and grandchildren, Sis took care of the neighborhood children, volunteering for the PTA at Frances Willard School and serving as a crossing guard for the Scranton School District. At the corner of St. Ann’s Street and Main, she shepherded hundreds of children – and their children – for decades. The children, in turn, adored her, bringing her cards and gifts along with many hugs and high-fives as she sent them safely on their way.
Even in the face of her illness, Naomi remained a steadfast friend and confidant to all who knew and loved her. The twinkle in her eyes, beautiful smile, and love of laughter will never be forgotten. She was a gift to everyone in her life.
She is survived by her three children, Faith Golay and husband Michael of Lake Winola; John Polishan and wife Molly of Roaring Brook Twp. and Stephen Polishan and wife Roseann of Scranton; three siblings, Martin Monahan and wife Ileta of Scranton, Cheryl Burrier of Scranton and Wayne Brauer of Scranton; brother and sister in-laws and best friends Paul Polishan and wife Gloria of Old Forge and sister in-law Theresa Minicozzi; brother in-law, the late Frances Polishan and sister in-law, the late Annmarie Boyle; seven adoring grandchildren, Olivia and Michael Golay, Jonah, Samantha, Hunter, Hope and Holden Polishan; and many doting nieces and nephews.
Her family would like to express their appreciation to the endless amount of those who have been supportive and loving throughout her fierce battle with Parkinson’s disease, including caregiver and friend Marykay Judge. The family will be forever grateful.
Funeral services are scheduled to begin on Thursday at 11 a.m. with Mass at St. Lukes Episcopal Church, 232 Wyoming Avenue, Scranton, to be celebrated by Rev. Earl Trygar. Private interment at Forest Hills Cemetary, 1830 Jefferson Ave., Dunmore, will be at the discretion of the family.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. from the Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 125 North Main Ave, Scranton.
Memorial contributions may be made in Naomi’s name to the ARC of Northeastern Pennsylvania, 115 Meadow Ave., Scranton, PA 18505.