Sister Jean Louise Forkin, CSC
(September 3, 1938 - October 5, 2010)
Please, join in prayer of thanksgiving for this Sister of the Holy Cross who died on October 5, 2010 in Saint Mary's Convent.
Word has been received of the death of Sister Jean Louise Forkin, who died on Tuesday, October 5, 2010, at 3:50 p.m. in Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, Maryland.
Sister Jean Louise was a gregarious, fun-loving religious who enjoyed life while spreading joy to those around her. She loved music and dancing, so wherever there was a gathering with laughter and happiness she was eager to be a part of it. Often times she was the party-instigator and the one who encouraged others to join in the fun.
However, Sister Jean Louise was serious about her commitment to her ministries and invested all of her energy into whatever role she was given. Her 45 years of service in hospital and elder care ministries were spent almost entirely at an administrative level and she adapted well to the various challenges leadership demanded of her. Those who knew her and worked with her felt themselves enabled through her example and clear directions. Her remarkable ability to see the “whole picture” and plan for its implementation could sometimes be overwhelming to others. Her faith sustained her in the goals she set and gave her an inner strength to be steadfast.
Sister Jean Louise involved herself in outreach activities that were varied and rewarding. The young military personnel at Annapolis benefited from her catechetical skills, her openness to be asked the “difficult questions,” and her calm reassurance in the face of their hesitancy and doubt. Her humor and obvious joy in her own religious commitment was more powerful than any lesson she taught.
One of her favorite activities was working with the Associates Program. Sister Jean Louise spearheaded its revival and worked tirelessly to encourage others to support it. Patty Heiberger, her good friend, partnered with her in making the program a success.
Love of family and love of community formed the core of Sister Jean Louise’s life and provided her with the strength and support she counted on in the ups and downs of daily living. She was particularly devoted to her mother and declared she got her great love of the rosary from her mother’s example. The Mass and the devotion to the rosary formed the powerhouse of her spiritual life and provided her with a solid grounding in love of Jesus and his Blessed Mother. Sister Jean Louise probably is dancing for them today as she rejoices in the triumph of the reward she received for her many accomplishments in the service of all the people of God. May she rest in peace.