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 74 years of dedication to her religious vocation, ministry in education, and service to her community have left a profound impact on all who knew her.
A Journey of Faith and Commitment
Born in Brooklyn, New York, on June 16, 1931, Sister Marie entered the Franciscan Sisters of Ringwood in 1949, a congregation that later merged with the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. She professed her first vows in 1951, beginning a life devoted to serving God and her community. Sister Marie lived her religious vocation with purpose, compassion, and deep faith, positively influencing countless individuals throughout her ministry.
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A Ministry Focused on Education and Parish Service
Sister Marie’s early ministry focused on education, where she spent over 50 years teaching children in schools across New Jersey and New York. She served in the Diocese of Paterson, teaching at Mt. Carmel School in Passaic, St. Catherine of Bologna School in Ringwood, and St. Francis School in Haskell. For 40 years, Sister Marie was integral to the community at Our Lady Queen of Peace School in Hewitt, New Jersey, where she taught, served as a teacher’s aide, and provided parish ministry. She was honored with the Vivere Christus Est Award for her outstanding contributions to education and parish life.
Expanding Her Ministry Across Dioceses
Sister Marie also contributed her time and talents in other areas of New Jersey and New York. She spent eight years teaching in the Diocese of Brooklyn at Holy Family School, and six years in the Archdiocese of Newark at St. Ann School in Hoboken. Across these years, her commitment to her students’ spiritual and academic growth, as well as her involvement in parish life, left a lasting impression.
A Life of Service in Retirement
In 2023, Sister Marie moved to Assisi House, the retirement home of her congregation in Aston, Pennsylvania. Even in her later years, she continued her ministry in prayer and hospitality, providing support to the Franciscan community and its mission.
Sister Marie’s Legacy
Sister Marie’s legacy is one of selflessness, compassion, and a deep commitment to faith and service. She inspired all who knew her with her unwavering dedication to education, parish life, and the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi. Her impact will continue to be felt through the countless students, parishioners, and individuals whose lives she touched.
Survived by Family and Franciscan Community
Sister Marie is survived by her nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan family. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her family, fellow sisters, and the many communities she served.
Final Services and Tribute
All services for Sister Marie will be held at Assisi House on Friday, January 24, 2025. The services will be livestreamed for those unable to 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 A.M., with burial at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Sisters of St. Francis Foundation in Sister Marie’s name to support the ongoing mission of the Sisters of St. Francis.
Conclusion: A Life Well Lived
Sister Marie Cimino’s life was a powerful testimony to the values of faith, education, and service. While she will be deeply missed, her spirit, kindness, and dedication will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love and grace of God.