Obituary of Cindy Lee DeGroat

Cindy Lee DeGroat, 68, a lifelong resident of Washington, New Jersey, passed away on February 27, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on December 22, 1956, to the late Manning and Rita Fox, Cindy lived a life filled with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community.

A graduate of Warren Hills Regional High School, Class of 1974, Cindy devoted decades of her life ensuring the safety of local children as a dedicated crossing guard. She bravely managed one of the most challenging intersections in town—Route 31 and Route 57—making sure every child arrived at school safely. She also spent time working as a cashier at the Walmart in Phillipsburg, where she was known for her kindness and warm smile.

Cindy was first married to Robert Monath Sr., with whom she had two beloved children, Robert Jr. and Candy. After Robert’s passing, she found love again with William DeGroat, who predeceased her in 2016. Above all, Cindy was a devoted mother and wife, always putting her family first.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—fishing at Hampton Borough Park, watching Law & Order, and collecting every Garfield knick-knack she could find.

Cindy is survived by her loving children, Robert Monath Jr. and his wife Jessi, and her daughter Candy Monath. She also leaves behind her siblings: Jack Fox and his wife Pearl, Helen Hartrum, Florence Fox, Bill Fox and his wife Nancy, Tom Fox and his wife Eve, Patric Hettman and his wife Louise, Faith Jones and her husband Kenny, and Joe Fox and his wife Denise.

She was predeceased by her husbands, Robert Monath Sr. and William DeGroat; her parents, Manning and Rita Fox; and her sisters, Diana Drexler, Barbara Rowand, and Rita Saunders.

Cremation will be held privately, and a celebration of Cindy’s life will take place at a later date.

Cindy’s kindness, dedication, and love for her family and community will never be forgotten. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.