Posted April 28, 2026

Sister Maryann Burgoyne, age 90, a member of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, died peacefully on April 23, 2026, at Lankenau Hospital near Merion, PA.

Maryann was born on May 19, 1935, in Philadelphia to her parents, Joseph F. Burgoyne and Madelynne Shea Burgoyne. Her brother, Joseph, warmly welcomed his baby sister, Maryann, calling her “Babe,” a nickname that remained within the family forever. Two years later, little Madelynne, fondly known as “Mad,” was born, adding to the Burgoyne family’s joy. Maryann and her siblings shared a happy childhood, attending St. Athanasius Parish and School. Maryann was accepted at the Academy of the Sisters of Mercy in Gwynedd Valley, where she met the Sisters of Mercy and felt the stirrings of her religious vocation. After graduating from high school, Maryann entered the Convent of Mercy in Merion on September 8, 1953. On March 11, 1954, upon her formal reception into the Sisters of Mercy, Maryann received the religious name Sister Maria Mercedes and chose “All for You, Heart of Jesus” as her lifelong motto.

Although Maryann’s early years in ministry were spent as an elementary school teacher, she readily accepted a request to study nursing, a decision that shaped the course of her life for the next six decades. Degrees from Villanova University and Ohio State University prepared her for a variety of healthcare ministries. Maryann held positions as a nurse, nursing supervisor, and director of ambulatory services at Misericordia Hospital. She also served as a nursing instructor at Gwynedd-Mercy College and later as Administrator of St. Edmond’s Home in Rosemont, PA. As Coordinator of Health Services at Manresa Hall, Maryann cared for the needs of retired Jesuits in Philadelphia. Her final years of active ministry in health care were spent as a consultant and health care coordinator in community-based programs. Volunteer service with the Red Cross completed her journey until her retirement at the Convent of Mercy and McAuley Convent.

God blessed Maryann with a multitude of gifts and talents that shaped her life and led her on a long, fruitful path of fulfillment and service of God and others. Her high school friends recall her inherent leadership, sharp intellect, and athletic abilities. In community and family settings, her fun-loving and “take charge” spirit brought people together for holidays and memorable celebrations. Her love of God and all the people God placed in her life were the recipients of her thoughtfulness, patience, and generous heart of mercy.

We thank God for the gift of Maryann’s legacy of loving care, perseverance in the face of long-suffering, and the gift of “All for You, Heart of Jesus.” Go now in peace, faithful friend of God, for time and eternity.