Mona Julia Beery

Mona Julia Beery (Gage, Edwards), 93, of Charlottesville, Virginia, began her final rest on August 13, 2026. She was a warm light in so many lives – mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend, and she will be deeply missed.

Mona was born in Washington, DC, on May 27, 1933, to Herbert and Mildred Gage. She spoke often about growing up and playing in Rock Creek Park with her friends. She looked up to her two older brothers – James and Warren – who, in return, looked after her with great care. Family was always important to her, and this was most apparent as she became a mother. Her children were her greatest treasure. She shared her love with so many other children and their families as she enjoyed a long career with Fairfax County Public Schools.

Mona’s infectious warmth drew many to her. She had wonderful friends throughout her life; from neighborhood parties in Springfield (VA) and beach trips to Rehobeth (DE), to traveling the world and landing in Pawleys Island (SC) and becoming a founding member of a group of friends that called themselves “the posse”.

Mona’s greatest gift to all was her positivity. No matter what she faced, she always felt blessed and found the silver lining. Even as her memories faded and her health declined, she greeted everyone with a smile and a warm “hello”.

Mona is survived by her three children and their families: Thomas Edwards (Patricia) of Louisa, Virginia and their children (and grandchildren), Beckie Palmer (Moe) and Matthew Edwards (James Thomas, Rachel); James Edwards of Fairfax, Virginia and his daughter, Darcie O’Brien (Fiona, Quinn); and Millie Winstead (Robert) of Charlottesville, Virginia and their children, Hannah Winstead and Gage Winstead. She is also survived by her older brother, Warren Gage (Leslie) of Locust Grove, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Mildred Gage; brother, James Gage; and her late husbands, Donald Imlay, Hartwell Edwards, and Edgar Beery.

Services will be held at Fairfax Memorial Park, 9902 Braddock Road Fairfax, Virginia at a later date.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the Lodge at Old Trail, and the staff and volunteers of Hospice of the Piedmont for their “angels on Earth” loving care for Mona. If you would like to make a donation in her name to help continue their phenomenal work, you may do so here: https://hopva.org.