Mary Agnes Brennan

Obituary Sister Mary Agnes Brennan (Also known as Sister Serena) 1918 - 2009 Sister Mary Agnes met the New Year with peace and trust. She died on the evening of New Years Day. She was born in Easton, Idaho. Her childhood and young adult years were spent in Ontario, Oregon. She was twenty one years of age when she entered the Sister of St. Francis in Pendleton, Oregon to dedicate herself to service in the Franciscan Way of Life. She ministered primarily in elementary education in Oregon, Washington and California. She attained her Masters in Education and took leadership in school administration, but preferred teaching in the classroom. She loved experiencing the growth and learning of her students. Even today some of her students are in contact with her. This is remarkable since she celebrated her 90th birthday in May. Her administrative skills and experience also contributed to her position as Provincial Secretary for the West Coast ministries of the Sisters of St. Francis. Sister was dedicated to the Franciscan Health System. She served on the Board of the Franciscan Foundation for two terms. In 1994, she began volunteering at The Franciscan Care Center at Tacoma, a Franciscan Health System Facility. She ministered for eight years as a receptionist. Her presence and support of employees and residents enriched the lives of many at the Center. She continued to be in contact with the employees in her retirement and kept their needs in her prayers. She also brightened the days of her sisters and the employees of St. Ann Convent when she was a recipient of care on the nursing unit. She is preceded in death by her parents and seven siblings. The sisters of St. Ann Convent thank the staff of the Convent, Dr. Bernardo, and Dr. Knodel for their loving care of Sister Mary Agnes. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Ann Convent at 11:00 am on January 8, 2009. Donations may be made to Sisters of St. Francis at 6602 S. Alaska St., Tacoma, WA. Interment is at Calvary Cemetery.