Obituary of Sister Maureen Anne Fowler

Sister Maureen Anne Fowler peacefully went Home to her Loving Creator on November 12, 2024, at the Saint John Regional Hospital in Saint John, NB.

Born on January 16, 1957, in Vancouver, BC, she was the oldest daughter of Edwin Fowler and Eileen (Naylen).

Maureen entered the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception on September 8, 1975, in Edmonton, Alberta.  She studied theology, philosophy and scripture at Newman Theological College, Education at the University of Alberta and Counselling Psychology at the University of British Columbia.  Her giftedness and creativity enabled her to influence many lives, especially children.

As a long-time educator, she taught at St. Joseph’s Elementary School in Spruce Grove, AB, music and dance at Sacred Heart Elementary in Edmonton and as a Counsellor with the Vancouver Public Elementary School District.  In every situation, each child experienced her unconditional care for their well-being, safety and success.

She also ministered in her Community as their Director of Formation and in Youth Ministry in Fredericton, NB.

Out of a childhood wish that one day children of Africa would be in her life, she volunteered in the Zulu village, Ndawana, in South Africa.  There she taught kindergarten, while at the same time advocating for professional training and just wages for those teaching with her.

Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation were life-long passions as well as facilitating groups in the practice of contemplative listening.  The  KAIROS Blanket Exercise and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission initiatives enabled her to meet her deep desire to learn and grow toward just, mutual relationships with Indigenous communities.

Maureen’s gentle and graceful presence, along with her lilting laugh, welcomed all, no matter their tradition, culture, generation, worldview or life experience.  She offered her giftedness in dance and music to celebrations and gatherings, a love she had since childhood from her many years of ballet.  As a friend wrote, she is “…the brilliant spirit that shimmers and dazzles…”

Maureen lived her life and commitment with conviction, simplicity, and joy, offering to all those she met her hope and belief in the goodness of people.  This was evident by her wide circle of friends and colleagues who knew her as a woman of courage, generosity and integrity.

Deep gratitude to Drs. Love, Mackin and Hemmings and the medical staff of Saint John Regional Hospital 3BNorth and Ruth Ross Residence.

Predeceased by her parents Edwin and Eileen.  Survived by her sisters Erin (Michael), Shauna and Sharon, brother Edwin and several nieces, nephews and one grandniece.

Visitation on Friday, November 15, from 2pm - 4pm and 6pm – 8pm, with Prayer Vigil at 6:30pm at Ruth Ross Residence (105 Burpee Ave).  Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, November 16, at 10am in Carmel Chapel at Ruth Ross Residence. For those unable to attend, the Mass will be livestreamed and can be viewed by visiting Sister Maureen’s obituary on the Brenan’s website.  Interment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Saint John.  Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506-634-7424).