Marilyn Sue Foltz was born in Park Hills, Kentucky, on December 3, 1944. She was the third of four girls, including her twin sister, Mary Catherine. Her parents, Ralph and Rosina (Sonderman) Foltz, nurtured a beautiful family, raised on the values of faith and love. Marilyn attended grade school at St. Cecilia, Independence, Kentucky, and high school at Notre Dame Academy in Covington, Kentucky, graduating in 1962.  She went on to graduate from nursing school as an LPN in 1966 and entered the Sisters of Notre Dame in September 1967.  Sister Mary Jana made her first profession of vows on August 9, 1970.

Sister Mary Jana ministered at St. Charles Community, Covington, Kentucky, and St. Claire Medical Center (UK St. Claire) in Morehead, Kentucky, until 1985.  She decided to further her nursing career at Northern Kentucky University, attaining her nursing degree in 1988.  She then worked in Lourdes Hall as a registered nurse and later as the Nursing Director. Sister supported her SND community with her many nursing talents for over 18 years.   

In 2006, after many fulfilling years in nursing, Sister Mary Jana requested a change of pace and worked with Visiting Angels, helping seniors locally, bringing them joy and companionship.  In 2008 Sister was again asked to help her community.  She became the Provincial House Healthcare Nurse. She took sisters to doctor appointments, emergency room trips, and surgeries, and handled prescriptions and other medical needs. She became an advocate for healthcare. Sister Mary Jana continued her ministry until 2021 when she retired to the Lodge at St. Charles Community.

She was always willing to make personal sacrifices to help those in need. She considered it a true honor to share with others the gifts God had so generously given to her.  Sister will always be remembered for her quiet nature, sincerity, and compassion.

Sister Mary Jana went home to God surrounded by her family and sisters on November 30, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Teresa Theobald. She is survived by her sisters Mary Catherine Quitter and Rose Marie Burch. Sister also leaves behind a beloved niece and nephews.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at St. Joseph HeightsChapel. The wake service will be held at 10:00 AM, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial. Interment in the convent cemetery will follow the Mass.

The post Sister Mary Jana Foltz, SND appeared first on Sisters of Notre Dame U.S.A..