Sister Marionette Coll, a nun of the IHM community, celebrated her 104th birthday on November 17, 2025, in a joyful gathering at the Our Lady of Peace Residence in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Surrounded by friends and fellow residents, Sister Marionette reflected on her remarkable life and the happiness that comes with reaching such a milestone.
The atmosphere was filled with warmth as attendees shared stories and laughter. “Well, it feels good,” Sister Marionette stated, expressing her delight at the attention she received during the celebration. Her journey began in Pittsburgh, where she was born into a large Irish Catholic family as one of twelve children.
At the age of 17, Sister Marionette made the significant decision to join the convent. She vividly recalls her journey to the convent, traveling alone on a night train from Pittsburgh. “The sisters got me a special card for clergy. And I wasn’t clergy,” she humorously noted, reflecting on her early days in religious life.
A Life Filled with Experiences
Over her nine decades of dedicated service and an impressive 104 years of life, Sister Marionette has witnessed significant historical events. She has lived through the administrations of 18 different U.S. Presidents, is eight years older than the former country of Yugoslavia, and has experienced the rise and fall of the Soviet Union.
Despite the many changes she has seen, Sister Marionette’s passion for working with children stands out as a highlight of her life. Recalling a memorable interaction, she shared, “This one kid said to me one day, ‘You never get sick, do you?’ And I said, ‘No, so don’t plan on it.'” Her dedication to her students is evident, as she proudly mentioned, “I never missed a day of school.”
Sister Marionette’s daily routine includes playing Scrabble and engaging in conversation with those around her. These activities, she believes, contribute to her longevity. “I take that, you take it one day at a time, and you try to make that a good day,” she advised.
As Sister Marionette continues to embrace life at 104, her story serves as an inspiration to many. Her ability to maintain a positive outlook, coupled with her love for community and service, exemplifies a life well-lived. The celebration of her 104th birthday not only highlights her personal achievements but also reflects the enduring spirit of those dedicated to faith and service.