Sister Anne Marie Robinson, SND(formerly Sister Mary Eric)December 20, 1938 – June 10, 2025Professed August 16, 1959
“Do not be hasty to speak, or impulsive to make a speech before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.” (Ecclesiastes 5:1) Although these lines were not written by Sister Anne Marie, she certainly lived by them. She was a lifelong learner in mind, heart, and soul. We were privileged to walk with her, a true wisdom-woman.
Anne Marie was born on December 20, 1938, in Elyria, Ohio, the fourth child of Harold and Marie (Wright) Robinson. At. St. Mary Parish, Anne received the sacraments and attended the elementary school. Elyria Catholic High School found her immersed in activities that reveal her many interests: A Cappella Choir, Athletic Association, Dramatics, Junior Achievement, and the student newspaper and yearbook. She joined the leadership group and was elected as a student council representative. She was also selected for membership in the Sodality, to grow in faith, deepen her understanding of Catholic teachings, and put belief into action through service and charitable works. Following her graduation in June of 1956, Anne entered the Sisters of Notre Dame on September 8. At investment, she took the name Sister Mary Eric.
With a Bachelor of Arts degree from Notre Dame College in 1961, she was sent to St. Michael High School in Cleveland, beginning a teaching ministry of 29 years. Subsequent assignments found her at Notre Dame Academy, Chardon; Regina High School, South Euclid; Notre Dame Academy in Middleburg, VA, and John F Kennedy High School in Warren. At JFK, she served as assistant principal and Dean of Students in addition to teaching. Though she earned the nickname “Sarge” for her high expectations and no-nonsense approach, her enthusiasm for teaching, especially literature, and her concern and love for the students are evident in the dozens of tributes received upon news of her death. Sister Anne was at St. Michael’s for just one year, but a former student remembers her as “an inspiration to us. At 78 years old, I still think of her. I am sure she touched many lives over the years. She was just that special.” Several noted how she influenced their own choices to major in English or to pursue a teaching career. She was a quiet presence, as one gentleman recalls, “a wonderful encourager and listener to me and my friends in later high school as we were searching and growing in our faith. I will always be grateful for her and for her impact on my life.” Sister earned a master’s degree in English literature from the University of Minnesota in 1971 and an advanced diploma in catechetics in 1974.
In 1990, Sister Anne was named a councilor for the province leadership team, and was the ministry coordinator and education coordinator for colleges and secondary schools. In 1992, she was among the Chardon delegates to an international meeting that convenes every 6 years. Her life changed dramatically when she was selected to serve on the General Council as an Assistant to the Superior General for a six-year term. Stationed at the Motherhouse in Rome, Italy, she oversaw the work of the entire congregation. She traveled to many countries and met with the sisters, members of the clergy, co-workers, and the people to whom they ministered. When asked to characterize Sister’s contribution, Sister Mary Joelle, who was the Superior General at the time, said that Sister Anne was “astute and thorough in all aspects of her work.” She listened intently, reflected, and then spoke to the heart of the matter. Sister Joelle added how much the Council members enjoyed and appreciated Sister Anne’s dry sense of humor.
Upon her return to Chardon, she became a certified webmaster and coordinated the province’s technology plan. These were times of transition, as she was subsequently called upon to use her gifts on many levels. She served the Cleveland diocese as assistant director of the Office for Women, and at Metro Catholic School was coordinator of marketing and recruitment. She volunteered in the Chardon Advancement Office; she was a college tutor, mentor, and hospital volunteer. She especially loved her volunteer work at the Holden Arboretum. For the past 8 years, she assisted in the Archives, expertly sorting and cataloging materials—painstaking, detailed, invaluable work. Whether with family, friends, or in community, you could count on hearing about a good book she was reading. After a lively discussion, she would synthesize the various points of view. “She was an amazing woman,” a friend commented. Even as her health declined in recent months, she remained unassuming, thoughtful, and thankful. God was with her; all shall be well. One Sister’s words to Sister Anne reach from time to eternity: “Thank you for your example of fidelity as a Sister of Notre Dame. Enjoy fullness of life!”
The Mass of Christian Burial for Sister Anne Marie will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Sisters of Notre Dame Center, 13000 Auburn Road, Chardon. It will be live-streamed here. Visitation will be from 9:30 until Mass begins.
To make a donation in memory of Sister Anne Marie, please click here.
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