Sister Marie O'Connor

Sister Marie OConnor died peacefully at Our Lady of Mercy Convent, Auburn on January 18, 2011. Born in County Kerry, Ireland on April 19, 1935, she was the daughter of the late John and Mary OConnor. She entered the Sisters of Mercy on February 5, 1955 and professed vows on August 18, 1957. After completing her religious studies she worked in Central Services at Mercy General Hospital until 1962. For the next forty years she worked in a variety of ministries: as an EKG and EEG technician at Mercy San Juan Hospital, Carmichael for eleven years; activities coordinator and staff supervisor at the Motherhouse in Auburn for six years; vocation recruitment in Ireland for four years and as support staff at the information desk at Mercy General Hospital, Sacramento for eight years. Because of failing health she retired from active ministry in 2006 and spent this past year in Our Lady of Lourdes Retirement Center. She is preceded in death by her brothers Jack, Jeremiah and Father Patrick, sisters Bridie Carroll and Kitty Graham. Survivors include her brother Larry (Maura), Michael Joseph (Teresa), many nieces, nephews and her religious community. Sister Marie was known for her gentle ways, sense of humor and a hearty laugh that enlivened all her interactions. A vigil service will be held on Monday, January 23 at 7:00 pm and a Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 24 at 11:00 am. All services will be at Our Lady of Mercy Chapel, Auburn. Memorial donations may be sent to Sisters of Mercy retirement fund, 535 Sacramento Street, Auburn, CA 95603. Sign the guest book at www.gormleyandsons.com