Sister Jean Morrison

Liturgy of Christian burial for the late Sister Jean Morrison, formerly Sister James Francis, 102, a Sister of St. Martha of Antigonish, was held May 28, 2019, in St. Martha Chapel, Parkland Antigonish, with Father Gary MacPherson officiating, assisted by Father Kevin MacDonald. Sister Morrison died May 23, 2019, at Martha Place/Mary’s Court, Parkland Antigonish, in her 78th year of religious life. Cross bearer at the funeral Mass was Sister Debbie Pike. Pall carrier was Sharon Beals. Readers were Sister Jovita MacPherson, Sister Stella Chafe and Harold Beals. Mary MacDougall and Leslie MacIntyre presented the offertory gifts. Music was provided by cantor Sister Claire MacNeil and pianist Sheila Redden. Pallbearers were Dan Fougere, Gordon Gillis, Carmen MacDonald, Joe Webb, John Webb and Tom Webb. Born in Mulgrave, she was one of three children of the late James Francis and Ella Jane (Webb) Morrison. She entered the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Martha on August 15, 1939, pronounced her first vows February 15, 1941, and her perpetual profession of vows August 14, 1944. After her profession of vows, she studied and received her Bachelor of Arts and teacher’s training from St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish. She also held certificates from the Toronto Conservatory of Music and the Vesper George Art School, Boston. She ministered for several years in the field of education, both as teacher and principal. While teaching, she served at St. Andrew’s School, St. Andrews, Antigonish Co.; St. Peter’s Convent, Ingonish, Victoria Co.; and St. Mary’s Convent, East Bay, Cape Breton Co. She also served as a general councillor of the congregation, director of junior professed sisters, and superior in several convents. Later, she volunteered as librarian, first at St. Martha’s School of Nursing, Antigonish, for two years, and then at Chedabucto School, Guysborough, for six years. From 1989 to 1994, while in St. Augustine’s Seminary, Scarborough, ON., she was English tutor to foreign students. After retirement, she assisted with various activities at Bethany. Always an avid reader, she was a trusted and valued editor for many writers in the congregation. Her life in extended care at Bethany, and recently in enhanced care at Mary’s Court, was one of prayer and contemplation. She lit up with a beautiful smile at the presence of another person and in turn gave much joy. She is survived by her foster sister, Sharon Beals, Halifax; several cousins. She was predeceased by two sisters, Cecelia, Hildegarde. Online condolences: www.clcurry.com