Marie Margaret Herman was born on August 22, 1929 to Leonard and Cecil (Long) Herman in Edgerton, Ohio. Their family consisted of 3 sisters and 3 brothers. The surviving members are Sr. Marcella, Alice Moriarty, and John Herman. Predeceased were her parents, sister, Sister Carol, brothers Edward and Paul.

Sister Marie wrote: “My life had held many surprises with the biggest being the Call to embrace religious life. I realize that the guidance I received from my pastor, Father Joseph Williams and the guiding force from my parents, especially through their example and prayers were the basis for my call.

Marie was received into the congregation in 1947 receiving the name Sister Mary Leonard. She made first vows in 1949 and made final profession of vows in 1952.

Sister Marie received her B.S. degree in Education from the former Mary Manse College in Toledo and M. A. degree in Education with specializing in administration from Catholic University in Washington, D.C. She taught, was organist and/or principal in Carey, Fort Jennings, New Washington, Seneca Huron Schools in Attica, and Bryan. She served as coordinator between the Public schools and St. Anthony Villa Children. Sister said children have always been a big part of her life. She said “Nothing beats helping a child’s tears turn into a smile.”

Sr. Marie became Executive Secretary for the Sisters of St. Francis from 1976 to 1982. In her individual annals, Sr. Marie relates how she personally experienced growth through this ministry. In her own words, Sr. Marie said, “As I consider the responsibilities of my position, I
feel I have personally grown - - mainly by realizing to a deeper depth the value of my own gift of self in being of service to others. Spiritually, through the example of community members, I have renewed my conviction that God sees to all in His time – when I am patient enough to
“be” in and for Him.

Sr. Marie spent the next 20 years serving as school secretary, administrative assistant and assistant principal at St. Patrick of Heatherdowns in Toledo. When her health failed, she returned to Tiffin to become a praying member at Saint Francis Convent and St. Francis Home.

For relaxation Marie enjoyed stamp collecting, counted cross stitching, crocheting, sewing and reading. She crocheted afghans for foster children. Sr. Marie was not only a stamp collector, but in an unassuming, mild, quiet and loving way put her “stamp” on all of her life experiences.

Sister gave her final response to the Author of her CALL as she peacefully gave her spirit back to God on October 22 at St. Francis Home.