Age 72
A beloved Sister of Mercy, pastoral leader, administrator, mentor and woman of deep faith, Sister Marian devoted her life to the service of God and God’s people, especially in her beloved homeland of Guam.
Born in Agaña, Guam, Sister Marian received her early education at Cathedral Grade School and graduated from the Academy of Our Lady of Guam. In 1973 Sister Marian went to Sacred Heart College and pursued a degree in psychology. After graduating, she followed her call to religious life and entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1976 in Belmont, North Carolina. She made her perpetual profession in 1982.
Sister Marian later pursued studies in liturgical music at The Catholic University of America, preparing herself for a lifetime of ministry marked by compassion, wisdom and dedication to the liturgical and pastoral life of the Catholic Church.
For more than three decades, Sister Marian served the people of Guam with exceptional devotion. Beginning in 1996, she served as director of the division of pastoral ministries for the Archdiocese of Agaña, where she became widely respected for her leadership, pastoral vision and commitment to forming and supporting lay and ministerial leaders throughout the archdiocese.
Her gifts as a leader and administrator also found expression within the Sisters of Mercy. She held a variety of leadership positions, which she faithfully carried out until her death.
Sister Marian’s religious life was beautifully reflected in her ring motto, “Onus Meum Leve Est” — “My Burden Is Light.” Those who knew Sister Marian remember a woman of gracious presence, deep spirituality, gentle humor and unwavering dedication to others. She was a gifted musician, singer, liturgist, a trusted colleague, a compassionate mentor and a faithful Sister of Mercy.