Marie Wilson Obituary

Wilson, Sister Marie, C.S.J.
ALBANY - Sister Marie (Helen Francis) Wilson died Thursday, June 27 at Albany Medical Center. Sister Marie had been a resident of Teresian House. On May 18, 2024, Marie celebrated her 100th birthday. Born in Glens Falls, N.Y., 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, N.Y. She entered the Novitiate in March 1943, and professed her first vows in 1945. She received a B.A. and M.A. from the College of St. Rose, Albany, N.Y. 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.
Her ministry at St. Paul's, Rome, N.Y., marked the beginning of 32 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, 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 100th 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, N.Y.; 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. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated in the Provincial House Chapel on Wednesday, July 3, at 10:30 a.m. Contributions in Sister's memory may be made to the Office of Mission Development, St. Joseph's Provincial House, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, N.Y. 12110.