Saint John’s Hospice Resident Spotlight: William Monaghan

Meet William (Will) Monaghan, a Saint John’s Hospice resident originally from Levittown, Pa. Whether he’s talking about fishing, cars, or his plans to volunteer once he leaves, Will’s warmth and gratitude are contagious. We sat down with him to learn more about his interests.

What are some of your hobbies?

Fishing and cars! Those are my two big ones.

What has your experience at Saint John’s Hospice meant to you?

Everybody’s polite. They all go out of their way, they work late, they’re good people. I’m grateful. We’re lucky to be here, really lucky. When I do leave, I’ll be coming back just to help out. There are a lot of people who come here to volunteer, so I’ll get in line with them.

You’ve also been spending time at Cranaleith Spiritual Center. Can you tell us about that?

I go to Cranaleith a lot, as many times as they’ll have me! Even when I leave, they tell me I’m more than welcome to come back, and Saint John’s will take us over there. I’m usually there on Thursdays. It’s a special place.

*Will planted a tree there alongside a former case manager – a living symbol of his time at SJH that will continue to grow for years to come. Cranaleith Spiritual Center, a 10-acre, non-profit sanctuary in Northeast Philadelphia sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, partners with Saint John’s Hospice to immerse residents in nature, offering peace, purpose, and a deeper connection to the world around them.

Do you have any goals or resolutions you’re working toward?

I plan on volunteering here at Saint John’s Hospice and Cranaleith after my SJH graduation. I’d love to take care of fish and maybe even start breeding them on my own. I’m retired but I don’t want to slow down!

Anything else you’d like people to know?

Everybody here is great. I don’t have any problems with any of the staff. They all do wonderful things. I’m grateful.