Celebrating the Life of Associate of Wisdom, Marie McLaughlin

Marie McLaughlin was called to eternal life on Saturday, January 18, 2020. One of the first, Marie was an Associate of Wisdom since 1988 and served for 32 years. Before relocating to Beacon, NY, she resided at Dominican Village in Amityville, NY, and prior to that in Williston Park, NY. She is laid to rest at Queen of All Saints Cemetery, Wheeler Road, Central Islip, NY.

Below are reflections shared by Marie, at the time of her 25th Jubilee, and Associates of Wisdom, Ellie Filippone and Audrey Schroeder.

In Her Own Words

As I look back over the many years I have been on earth; I am amazed at the journey. It was a journey with many companions on the way.

My family was loving, and my Irish-Italian roots brought color to my life, which included many extended family members.

After high school, I entered the Daughters of Wisdom community in Canada, and after profession was sent to Maryview Hospital School of Nursing.

Eventually, I was able to continue my education and went to St. John's University and St. Louis University.

In the late '60s, there were many changes. My mother was aging and alone. My relationship with God was very important, but I felt called to make a very difficult decision to leave the community.

At the time, I was working for the Visiting Nurse Association of Brooklyn. I continued in that field (in different places) until I retired in 1995.

My Mom was living with me, and I was privileged to care for her until her peaceful death in 1990. When the Associate program was developed, I read about it in the Long Island Catholic. I wasn't sure they would want me in the program. They accepted me, and the Rest is HISTORY –Twenty-Five years of it!

I am grateful to the Daughters of Wisdom and the Associates of Wisdom as I continue the journey.

A few words from Ellie Filippone, Associate of Wisdom

As far as my recollections of Marie, I always found her to be very pleasant and easy to talk with. She was the kind of person who made you feel comfortable and included. I recall the first or second time I went to Star as a "newbie" I was feeling apprehensive, but after connecting with Marie, I felt at home.

A few words from Audrey J. Schroeder, Associate of Wisdom

Marie McLaughlin! She was the personification of Joy and Love. At any function Marie attended, she always had a line of people waiting to talk to her. During the last year or so, Marie resided at Dominican Village in Amityville, NY. What a beautiful apartment she had, and thankfully, she loved her new home. As usual, Marie was delighted to have company. I hadn't seen her look so well in quite a long time.

While at Good Samaritan Hospital, shortly before her death, I visited Marie. 

She was very much at peace with her condition and was ready for her transition from our world to the arms of Holy Wisdom.

Thank you, Marie, for sharing your Joy, Love, and Life of Holy Wisdom.

Pictured above is Marie cutting the cake at her 25th Jubilee celebration at Star of the Sea and with Associate of Wisdom, Maryse Haig.