Monica Anne Doran

Monica Anne (Erven) Doran, of Lakewood, New Jersey, formerly of Hazlet, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 20, at the age of 61, surrounded by her loved ones after a courageous three-year battle with cancer. Monica found joy in life’s simple pleasures and in the people she loved most. A fiercely loyal grandmother (“Grammy”), mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, she could always be counted on in both life’s greatest celebrations and its most difficult moments. Family was her foundation, and she stood beside those she loved with unwavering devotion, quiet strength, and unconditional love. Above all, Monica’s greatest joy was her granddaughters, who were the light of her life. She cherished every moment spent with them and loved being their Grammy. A devoted mother and aunt, Monica never missed an opportunity to cheer on her son, daughter, niece, and nephews at their sporting events. She enjoyed playing bingo, was a lifelong fan of Bruce Springsteen and Donny Osmond, had a special fondness for Eeyore, and was an enthusiastic soccer supporter, especially of Team Argentina and her favorite player, Lionel Messi. Monica dedicated much of her professional life to serving others through her work. She was employed by the law firm of Giordano, Halleran & Ciesla in Red Bank, New Jersey, where she worked for 27 years. She later joined Romeo Enterprises, where she remained until her retirement. Throughout her career, Monica was known for her dedication, strong work ethic, and the lasting relationships she built with colleagues and friends. Monica was predeceased by her beloved parents, Helen M. Erven and James “Jim” Erven Sr. She is survived by her loving children, Steven Doran of Sayreville, New Jersey, and Alyssa Doran of Leonardo, New Jersey, and Alyssa’s fiancé, Bronson Basilicato. She is also survived by her brothers, James “Jim” Erven Jr. and his wife, Lisa, of Hazlet, New Jersey, and John Erven and his wife, Faye, of Brick, New Jersey; her ex-husband John Doran and his wife, Brenda, of Keansburg, New Jersey; her devoted nephews and niece, A.J., Matthew, Jaden, and Johnny; and her cherished granddaughters, Mariana, Aiden Rose, Freya, and Remi. Monica’s love, loyalty, and generous spirit touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, and her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends. A memorial gathering will be on Wednesday July 29, 2026 from 5pm to 8pm. at Laurel Funeral Home, 201 Laurel Ave., West Keansburg.

Monica Anne Doran

July 20, 2026