It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mona "Pal" O. Lackman on May 19, 2023. Born on September 10, 1932 in Port Deposit, Maryland. Losing her father at a young age, Mona watched her mother work hard to keep their family together. Mona followed in those footsteps and grew up to be a strong, hard-working independent woman. She was known for her welcoming, witty, bold, and generous personality. She had a knack for striking up conversations with anyone and made fast friends, often playing devil's advocate as she listened and empathized with people's stories.

In 1955, Mona married Andre Versyp and together they had two children. Although she parted ways with her former husband Andre, she continued a close and amicable relationship with him and his extended family in Belgium. She later married Harold Lackman in 1991 and remained married until his passing in 2006. Some of her greatest accomplishments include paving the way for women in a male-dominated industry in the 1970s (traveling sales/retail), standing up and running successful businesses with her late husband and son, such as the Italian delicatessens Prego & Prego Secondo in Washington D.C. and Chesapeake Guns on the Eastern Shore.

Mona and Harold shared a legacy regarding the importance of education, and they were staunch supporters of their family’s schooling, artistry, or trade. She loved listening to Buddy Rich and Gene Krupa's music, and her favorite vacation spots included various locations in Europe. She always said Belgium had the best food, especially the beer and chocolate. Mona was also known for sharing practical life advice, such as "Take care of your credit and your teeth!"

Mona is survived by her family: daughter Nicole Murtha (Versyp/Brumsted); son Marc Versyp; daughter-in-law Trish Versyp; granddaughter Meghann Pierdon (Brumsted); granddaughter Lauren Layman (Brumsted) grandson Kellen Brumsted; granddaughter Brittany Mele (Versyp); grandson Kyle Versyp; and granddaughter Paige Snow (Versyp). She was predeceased by her father, Ernest Miller 'Unk' Benjamin; mother, Edna Benjamin (Linton); former husband, Andre Versyp; husband, Harold Lackman; sister, Irma Lipscomb (Benjamin); and other beloved family members.

Her warmth, humor, and indomitable spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Mona's legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, a testament to her remarkable life. Rest in peace, dear Mona "Pal" O. Lackman.

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