Sister Maria Aquina O’Toole, IHM
March 14, 1904 – July 10, 1995
Sister Maria Aquina O’Toole, IHM, of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary died on Monday, July 10, 1995, at the Marian Convent in Scranton, PA.
She was born on March 14, 1904 in Pittsburgh, PA, and given the name Mary Euphrasia. She was the daughter of the late Martin W. and Anne Cunningham O’Toole. She entered the IHM Congregation on September 8, 1922, and made profession of her vows on December 29, 1924.
Sister Maria Aquina served as a teacher at the following schools: St. Cecilia Elementary School in Scranton, PA; St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Elementary School in Dunmore, PA; St. Agnes Elementary School in Lock Haven, PA; St. Joseph Elementary School in Renovo, PA; St. Rosalia Elementary School in Pittsburgh, PA; St. Peter of Alcantara Elementary School in Port Washington, NY; St. Joseph Elementary School in Williamsport, PA; and St. Mary Elementary School in Avoca, PA. She served as a catechetical instructor at Resurrection Parish in Muncy, PA.
Sister served as principal at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Elementary School in Altoona, PA.
Sister Maria Aquina served in prayer ministry at St. Mary’s Convent in Avoca, PA; Our Lady of Sorrows Convent in Vestal, NY; and at the Marian Convent, where she resided from 1986 until the time of her death.
She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Marywood College.
She was preceded in death by three sisters, Bertha (infant), Katheryn Horan and Sister M. Mildred O’Toole, IHM, and two brothers, William E. and John F. “Ollie.”
She is survived by a sister-in-law, Mildred O’Toole of Hollywood, CA, and a niece, Maureen O’Toole of Van Nuys, CA.
Interment is at St. Catherine’s Cemetery in Moscow, PA.
Archival Remembrance:
On July 10, God drew Sister Maria Aquina O’Toole to eternal life, after serving as an IHM sister for 71 years. Throughout her many years of ministry, she influenced the lives of thousands with her gentle, affirming and gracious ways. As a teacher she touched the lives of students in elementary schools where she served, as well as Resurrection Parish, where she served as a catechetical instructor.
Donate in Sister's memory
Memorial contributions may be made to support the retired Sisters of IHM. Donate online today, or send your donation c/o the Sisters of IHM Retirement Fund, IHM Center, 2300 Adams Avenue, Scranton, PA 18509.