Age 96
Inspired by her motto, “So be it,” Sister James Marie, a talented nurse, educator, and administrator, was known for her progressive attitude, compassionate mentoring, firm but fair leadership and high regard for education.
Born in Charles City, Iowa, Rose Ann attended elementary school at St. Mary’s School and graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy, both in Dubuque, Iowa. Next, she attended the former Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, followed by her entrance into the Sisters of Mercy in Marion, Iowa, at the age of 24.
Later she earned a master’s degree in nursing education from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and a doctorate in educational administration from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. In a time when women’s career options were limited to being a teacher, nurse or entering a religious life, Sister James Marie accomplished all three.
Sister James Marie began her career as a nurse, instructor and then as a nurse supervisor at Mercy Hospital in Anamosa, Iowa. She became the director of Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for 17 years. Five years later she was elected vice-president of the former Cedar Rapids regional community and then president for a total of eight years.
After she completed her terms on the leadership team, she ministered at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, as the chairman of the Board of Trustees and the Mercy Endowment Foundation. Six years ago, she retired to Sacred Heart Convent Life Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and then Hallmar Village in Marian, Iowa.