Obituary of Sister Margaret Rose Nickerson

Sister Margaret Rose Nickerson (Sister Marion) peacefully went Home to her loving God on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at the Loch Lomond Village in Saint John, NB. Born on March 8, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Arthur Edward and Frances Marion (Burns) Nickerson.

She was a graduate of St. Vincent’s High School and entered the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception on August 15, 1961.  In her education ministry, she generously shared her gifts with the children at St. Peter’s School and Holy Trinity School in Saint John from 1965-1981.  She was Pastoral Assistant at Holy Trinity Parish (1982-1986) and later at Holy Rosary Parish, St. Stephen, NB, (1986-1993).

Her interest and love for young adults drew her to Campus Ministry at the University of New Brunswick for 12 years.  She also accompanied persons on their spiritual journey as a Spiritual Director at the Audite Centre for Spiritual Growth and had a great fondness for the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.

But the ministry dearest to her heart was with Avenue B (formerly AIDS Saint John) where she was a Support Worker for 25 years.  With tenderness and conviction, she advocated for those living with poverty, addictions and illness.

Margaret Rose was affectionately called “Nicky” by her family, friends, colleagues and those to whom she ministered.  She was known for her quiet, compassionate listening and gentle acceptance of all those she met.  Whether it was at her BBQ on Waterloo Street, a visit to the Regional Hospital, a casual meeting or in her relationship with the Sisters of Charity Associates, each person was warmly welcomed with dignity and affection.

Sister Nicky said her daily prayer was, “Lord, teach me what I need to learn to do to be a better woman of the Gospel.”

Predeceased by her parents Arthur and Frances, sister Corinne and brother Thomas.

Survived by her brother David (Nancie) and sisters Jo-Ann Clark and Connie (Andreas) Vizirakis, as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

Visitation at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row on Monday, April 17, 2-8pm with a Vigil at 7pm in the Chapel.  Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Rothesay, Tuesday, April 18 at 11 am.  For those unable to attend, the Mass will be livestreamed and can be viewed by visiting Sister Nickerson's obituary on the Brenan's website.  Interment at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Saint John, NB.

Donations can be made to Avenue B, Romero House, Loch Lomond Villa Foundation, or the charity of choice.