Monica Leigh Hegland

April 24, 1968 — August 26, 2025

Monica Hegland

Service Details

Monica Leigh Hegland (McLaughlin), 57, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 due to early-onset Alzheimer’s.
Born in Des Moines, Iowa on April 24, 1968, Monica was determined to live her life to the fullest.

She dedicated her life to caring for others, both personally and professionally. She spent her career as a teacher within Norwalk and Des Moines Public Schools, where she touched countless lives with her compassion, patience, and ability to see the potential in everyone. Students and colleagues remember her as not only an educator, but also a mentor and a friend.

Outside the classroom, Monica lived her life with energy and passion. She was a proud Iowa State alumna and devoted Cyclone fan. She had a deep love for music and concerts- usually working her way to the front row where she would be dancing, smiling, and enjoying the moment to its fullest with the people around her. Monica also enjoyed staying active through bike rides, long walks outside, yoga, and stretching. She found joy in the simple moments of movement and connection.

Most important in Monica’s life were her family and friends. Those who knew Monica, describe her as beautiful inside and out. She was kind, caring, intelligent, witty, brave and vibrant. She was someone who could light up every room she entered. Her warmth and generous heart created enduring connections with family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Monica was preceded in death by her mother, Lynne (Belote) McLaughlin.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Hegland; daughters, Hanna and Gretta Hegland; father, Thomas (Steph) McLaughlin; siblings, Shannon (Jenn), Luke, and Madison (Beth) McLaughlin; as well as many extended family members and close friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street, Des Moines. All are welcome to join in honoring and remembering Monica’s life.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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