With deep sorrow and profound trust in God’s eternal promise, we announce that Sister M. Marlene Burke, F.D.C. passed away peacefully early in the morning of October 8, 2026, at the age of 92.
A Daughter of Divine Charity for 71 years, Sister Marlene devoted her entire religious life to serving the Congregation with joy, fidelity, and unwavering love. Her ministry took her throughout Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York, where she served in the field of education as teacher, principal and catechist reaching the hearts of her students and families she served.
Sister Marlene’s love for education was wholehearted and lifelong. No matter the subject or grade level, she challenged her students to strive for excellence, to grow in character, and to deepen their sacramental life. Her gentle strength, clarity of purpose, and devotion to the spiritual formation of young people remain a cherished part of our Congregation’s legacy.
Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on September 24, 1934, she was the beloved daughter of Edwin Francis Burke and Elizabeth Ann Fulup and was given the baptismal name Ellen Elizabeth. The Burke family was blessed with two religious vocations: Sister Marlene and her brother, who became known in the Church as Msgr. Edwin Francis Burke.
Funeral services for Sister Marlene will be held on Saturday, October 10th, at St. Joseph Hill Convent, 850 Hylan Blvd. Staten Island, NY 10305. Visitation will take place before the Mass of Resurrection at 9:45 a.m. which will be celebrated by Father Michael Martini, Pastor of Holy Rosary Parish, Staten Island.
Following the liturgy, Sister Marlene will be laid to rest in the family plot at St. Michael’s Cemetery in Stratford, Connecticut.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Daughters of Divine Charity.
We give thanks to God for Sister Marlene’s long life, her joyful witness, and her steadfast commitment to making God’s love visible. We ask our friends, families, and benefactors to join us in prayer for the repose of her soul.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in eternal peace.