Sister Anne Maureen Oakman, CSJ

After seventy-six years as a Sister of Saint Joseph, Anne Maureen now enjoys the fullness of life promised to all who follow God’s way. Anne Maureen learned God’s way through the influence of her parents Mary Moran Oakman and Robert John Oakman. Their strong faith based in their Irish roots from Tipperary gave Anne confidence in God’s unconditional love so she could develop her gifts and share them without reserve.

Anne attended St. Agnes elementary school in Brooklyn and Bishop McDonnell High School. Upon graduation, she entered the congregation and received a Bachelors and Master’s Degree from Manhattan College in Guidance. Anne taught many different grades in parish schools in Brooklyn and taught English in Academia San Jorge in Puerto Rico.  She also served as Principal of Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary not once but twice.

All of Anne’s ministries were enriched by her dedication, warmth, joy and attention to others. No matter where she was, Anne was opened to meet the need that was before her. At Bishop Kearney High School she worked in guidance and eventually tutored students when they needed help. But what Anne gave them was more than academic support. She engendered confidence, shared her warmth and encouragement and yes helped students achieve.

No matter where Anne was, she welcomed others without distinction. Just as Jesus welcomed the children, the lost, the suffering and disabled Anne’s deep joy, expressed so consistently with her warm smile, was shared with all who came into her presence. Even in her last illness, she would inquire about the persons who visited her or cared for her needs.  Anne’s family was so very dear to her and she enjoyed their faithful presence at holidays, during vacations, visits and especially as she recently celebrated her jubilee. And they enjoyed Ann’s attention, humor and thoughtful gifting because they know how much she loved them.

Today we celebrate Anne’s life, a manifestation of God’s boundless love for each one of us. She has been a gift in our lives and we can insure the gift of Ann’s life lives on as we imitate the lessons we have learned from her. We thank her for her dedication, warmth and generous sharing of the love she now enjoys to the full for all eternity.

Sister Anne Maureen Oakman, CSJ died on November 11, 2015 in the 76th year of her religious life.