Virginia (Mother Virginia) Marshall

Virginia Roxalyn Marshall, better known as Mother Virginia, sometime Superior of the All Saints Sisters of the Poor, passed into eternal life on the evening of April 25, 2019.

Mother Virginia was born on July 13, 1915, the oldest daughter of Joseph and Sue Marshall, in Lewes, Delaware.  She led an active life enjoying swimming, sailing, playing the piano, and swinging on a rope swing.  It was while she was swinging; she met and meditated on God.  A chance meeting with several All Saints Sisters walking the beach sparked her eventual vocation to the religious life.  She earned a degree in music education and taught briefly before entering the Community in 1940.

Upon Mother’s Solemn Profession in May 1943, she served the Community as a driver and worked with the children at the St. Gabriel’s Home for Children.  In 1951 Mother Virginia was elected Superior, a position she held for 37 years.  She is credited with bringing many vocations to the Community and overseeing several building projects as a result.  

During her tenure, Mother led many Parish retreats, increased the number of Associates, and wrote probably one hundred thousand letters, all the while leading an intense prayer life.  She was a spiritual guide and friend to all who sought her counsel.

She is survived by her brother T. Roland Marshall, many nieces, nephews, and greats; two sisters, Lillian Burris and Sue Dean, predeceased her.

She will be greatly missed by her Community, family, and friends.

A Viewing will be held at All Saints Convent on Tuesday April 30, 2019 from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm. 

The Requiem Mass will be held in the Chapel on May 1, 2019 beginning at 10:30 am followed by committal in the Community’s cemetery. 

A reception follows at St. Gabriel’s Retreat House.

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