Remembering Sister Marie Wilson, CSJ

May 18, 1924 – June 27, 2024

Sister Marie (Helen Francis) Wilson died Thursday, June 27 at Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York.  Sister Marie had been a resident of Teresian House. On May 18, 2024, Marie celebrated her 100^th birthday. Born in Glens Falls, New York, Marie was the daughter of Frank Wilson and Helen Casey Wilson.  In addition to the faithful lives of her parents, Marie was deeply influenced by two priest uncles.  

Marie was a high school graduate of St. Mary’s Academy in Glens Falls. Her journey with the Sisters of St. Joseph began in Troy, New York.  She entered the Novitiate in March 1943 and professed first vows in 1945.  She received a B.A. and M.A. from the College of St. Rose, Albany, New York. Sister’s early ministry included teaching and administration in the elementary schools of the Albany and Syracuse dioceses.  She was also the appointed superior in several school convents. Marie’s love of learning not only included workshops and conventions in education, but also in the realm of spirituality and the directives of the Second Vatican Council. Immersed in the Congregation’s charism of serving the needs of the community of faith, the “Dear Neighbor”, Sister responded to a new ministry, religious education in parishes.

Ministry at St. Paul’s, Rome, New York marked the beginning of thirty–two years serving with that faith community.  She was supported in this ministry by Msgr. William Kelly and Reverend Robert Kelly.  Marie described these years directing the religious education program, leading Scripture classes with the parish volunteers, and offering the theological updating following the Vatican Council, as the “happiest and most fulfilling times of my religious life.” In retirement at St. Paul’s, she continued volunteering in that parish. She loved the parish life and became a treasured friend to many.

In 2013, Sister retired to St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Latham, New York where she became a member of a local community and found various ways of serving with other sisters. When health concerns required this very independent woman to need assistance, her caregivers described her as “always gracious and appreciative of care even when she was in grave discomfort.” As her healthcare needs grew, Sister accepted a final move to Teresian House shortly after her 100^th birthday.

Sister Marie’s memory will be cherished by the Sisters of St. Joseph, her cousins who have been so attentive to her, Reverend Robert Kelly, her many loyal friends from Rome, New York and the caregivers who so lovingly assisted her. Sister Marie’s life will be celebrated by a Vesper Service on Tuesday, July 2 at 4:00 P.M. in St. Joseph’s Provincial House Chapel, Latham, New York. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated in the Provincial House Chapel on Wednesday, July 3 at 10:30 A.M. 

Contributions in Sister Marie’s memory may be made to the Office of Mission Advancement, St. Joseph’s Provincial House, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, New York, 12110 or donate online.