Sister Marie Cimino, OSF Death & Obituary: Sister Marie Cimino, OSF (formerly Sister Gerard), passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Assisi House in Aston, Pennsylvania, at the age of 93. Her life, marked by 74 years of dedication to her religious vocation, community, and ministry, left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
A Life of Devotion and Service
Born on June 16, 1931, in Brooklyn, New York, Sister Marie entered the Franciscan Sisters of Ringwood in 1949. The congregation later merged with the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, where she professed her first vows in 1951. Over the course of her life, she lived a life full of compassion, purpose, and commitment, impacting countless individuals through her educational and pastoral work.
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Sister Marie spent over 50 years in education, beginning her ministry in the Diocese of Paterson. She taught at schools such as Mt. Carmel School in Passaic, St. Catherine of Bologna School in Ringwood, and St. Francis School in Haskell. For 40 years, she was a beloved presence at Our Lady Queen of Peace School in Hewitt, New Jersey, where she earned the Vivere Christus Est Award for her outstanding contributions to the school and parish.
Broader Ministry Across Dioceses
In addition to her teaching roles, Sister Marie extended her ministry to the broader community through pastoral care and volunteer work. She spent eight years in the Diocese of Brooklyn, teaching at Holy Family School, and six years at St. Ann School in Hoboken, within the Archdiocese of Newark. Her dedication to the academic and spiritual growth of her students and parishioners was a hallmark of her service.
In 2023, as she entered the later years of her life, Sister Marie moved to Assisi House, the retirement home for the Sisters of St. Francis in Aston. Even in retirement, she remained devoted to the congregation’s mission, offering prayer, hospitality, and support to her fellow sisters.
A Legacy of Faith and Service
Sister Marie’s legacy is one of selflessness, love, and unwavering faith. Her commitment to education, service, and the teachings of St. Francis inspired all who had the privilege of working with her. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to impact future generations of students, families, and fellow Franciscans.
She is survived by her many nieces and nephews, as well as her Franciscan family. Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her, including her colleagues, students, and parishioners.
Final Services and Tribute
The final services for Sister Marie will be held at Assisi House on Friday, January 24, 2025. These services will be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person. The day will begin with a Christian Wake Service at 9:30 A.M., followed by a viewing. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 A.M., with burial following at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, where Sister Marie will be laid to rest among her fellow Franciscans.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sister Marie’s name to the Sisters of St. Francis Foundation, 609 S. Convent Road, Aston, PA 19014, to support the ongoing mission of the Sisters of St. Francis.
Conclusion: A Testament to Faith and Service
Sister Marie Cimino’s life was a testament to the power of faith, education, and service. While she will be deeply missed, her legacy will live on in the hearts of all those she touched. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love and grace of God.