Former Religious Name: Sister Joanne

Home parish: Blessed Sacrament, Margate, NJ

Sister Marianne Stuckert, formerly known as Sister Joanne, has devoted her life to education, service, and the pursuit of peace and justice. Born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, she entered the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1967 from Blessed Sacrament Parish in Margate, New Jersey, after completing her junior year as a chemistry major at Villa Maria College in Erie, Pennsylvania. Inspired and supported by the Sisters she encountered during her college years, she recognized her call to religious life and began a journey marked by faith, dedication, and a delightful sense of humor.

A guiding inspiration throughout Sister Marianne’s life has been the words of Micah 6:8: “This is what God asks of you, only this, to act justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly with your God.” These words reflect her commitment to living out her faith through service to others and dedication to justice. Her quick wit and sense of humor have also been treasured gifts to the congregation, often accompanying her passion for important social issues.

Sister Marianne began her teaching ministry at Our Lady’s Christian School, where she taught science to seventh- and eighth-grade students. She later returned to Villa Maria College as a chemistry instructor, serving for approximately ten years while also managing the college bookstore. Her educational ministry continued through teaching chemistry at Villa Maria Academy and Gannon University, where she shared her knowledge and encouraged students in their studies.

Her service extended beyond the classroom into community outreach. Sister Marianne served as Assistant Director of Community House for Women in Erie and, in 1978, became Resident Director of Horizon House for Women in Union City, Pennsylvania. These ministries reflected her concern for others and her desire to support people through practical service and compassionate care. She also pursued additional studies at the University of Notre Dame and served as an EKG technician and phlebotomist at Saint Vincent Health Center.

Sister Marianne later assumed responsibility for academic scheduling at Villa Maria Academy, in 1991, while continuing to contribute to the educational community she cherished. Her years of service in education, including her work with students and staff at Villa Maria Academy, demonstrate her enduring commitment to helping young people grow in knowledge and faith.

Throughout her vocation, Sister Marianne has relied on prayer, reflection, and the support of family, fellow Sisters, and friends to remain focused on her mission. She encourages others to make room for spiritual growth by offering this simple advice: “Slow down, take time to listen to your heart and you will discover God’s plan for you.”

Sister Marianne’s life reflects the spirit of Micah’s call to act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with God. Through her dedication to education, her care for others, and her commitment to peace and justice, she continues to embody the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph: fostering love of God and neighbor without distinction.