R.I.P Sister M. Edwin Thomas, O.Carm.
Sister M. Edwin Thomas O.Carm. passed away peacefully at Ozanam Hall on the morning of Monday, February 1, 2021 at the age of 101, and in the 82nd year of her religious life. Although her health had slowly declined over the past few years, Sr. Edwin remained in the enhanced living convent where she was lovingly cared for by the Sisters and staff. On Sunday, the day before her death, Sr. Edwin's much loved nephew, Rev. Edgar Debany S.J., anointed her. Sr. Edwin was alert, responded to the prayers, and spoke with Father Edgar during their visit together.
Gladys Virginia Debany was born on November 4, 1919 in Aleppo, Syria, to Constantin and Bridgitte (nee Hind) Debany, and at some point after arriving in the United States resided in the Prospect Park section of Brooklyn, NY. Sr. Edwin entered the Congregation on March 16, 1939 less than 10 years after its founding. She received the habit on September 8, 1939, professed first vows on December 9, 1940 and professed perpetual vows on May 30, 1946. During her many years as a Carmelite, Sr. Edwin ministered to the elderly in homes in New York, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts, and also served at Cathedral Faculty House. She served in various capacities including administration, bookkeeping, bursar, and resident coordinator. In many of her missions, she was appointed either the Superior or the First Assistant. Sr. Edwin had been missioned at Ozanam Hall since June 1, 1995.
Sr. Edwin loved sweets, candies, cookies, bananas, pasta, and warm ginger ale. She had a great devotion to Our Blessed Mother, and loved the Memorare. A gentle, quiet soul, Sr. Edwin had great faith in the power of prayer and was faithful to prayer even when she could no longer go to the chapel. Sr. Edwin was also faithful to the residents and up until the latter part of 2017 reported to the 10th floor of Ozanam Hall (her floor) to visit her residents daily. She was loved by all and the aides on the 10th floor especially loved her!
A model of fidelity to the Charism of Venerable Mary Angeline Teresa, Sr. Edwin's long journey in Carmel has reached fulfillment and she now stands in perfect health, happiness and peace before the Lord who called her so many years ago. Mother Angeline surely rejoiced to welcome her faithful daughter to the company of all the saints. Sr. M. Edwin Thomas, intercede for your Sisters who are still on the journey!