Sister Suellen Theresa Tennyson "Sister Mary Richard"

Sister Suellen Theresa Tennyson (AKA Sr. Mary Richard) passed away on April 2, 2025, in Covington, Louisiana, at the age of 86. Born on December 21, 1938, she dedicated her life to faith, service, and education as a member of the Marianites of Holy Cross.

She entered the Marianites on September 7, 1956, and professed her final vows on August 14, 1961. Over the decades, Sister Suellen served in numerous leadership roles within the congregation, including Director of Novices, Provincial Council member, Provincial, and Congregational Leader. Her commitment extended beyond her community as she also served as Vicar for Religious for the Archdiocese of New Orleans.

Sister Suellen devoted many years to education in Louisiana. She taught at St. Cecilia, St. Rita, and Resurrection schools in New Orleans-serving one year as principal at Resurrection - and taught at Sacred Heart in Ville Platte, LA. Her dedication to spiritual formation and education was further reflected in her service on the Boards of the University of Holy Cross and the Cenacle Retreat House. She also ministered internationally in Yalgo, Burkina Faso, at John Paul Il Medical Center and Holy Family Parish.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Tennyson and Gladys Labbe Tennyson; her brother, James Tennyson Jr.; and her sister, Patricia Tennyson Downing.

She is lovingly remembered by her Marianite sisters as well as her nieces Suellen Tennyson, Laura T. Butler, and Kristin D. Lassiter (Chad); nephew James Downing (Kim); grand-nieces Taylor Butler, Madison Richard, Grace Downing, Lillian Downing, and Iris Downing; grand-nephews Brennan Butler, Zachary Richard, and Levi Downing; sister-in-law Jenny Tennyson; numerous Tennyson and Labbé cousins; and longtime friend Shirley Lachmann and her family.

Suellen spent her last two and a half years in Louisiana re-establishing connections made throughout her life-time as well as making new friends every day.

Sister Suellen's life was a testament to unwavering faith and compassionate service.

She treated everyone she encountered with deep respect and always with her ever-ready smile. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

Visitation will be held at St. Benedict Catholic Church, Smith Road, Covington, LA on Thursday, April 10 from 9:00 - 11:00 AM with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM.

Private burial will follow at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Marianite Mission Fund