Sister Jean Phillipson

Sister Jean Phillipson, 99, a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, passed away on Thursday morning, December 4, 2025, at the Holy Family Convent, Manitowoc, WI.

The former Jean Phillipson (also known as Sister Mary Roger) was born on March 20, 1926 in Steubenville, Ohio to the late Harry F. Phillipson and Eva C. (Fonow) Phillipson. She entered the convent in 1951 and professed her vows in 1953. Sister Jean earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Holy Family College, Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

Sister Jean ministered as a teacher at St. Boniface, Manitowoc and St. John, Antigo, both in Wisconsin; St. Agnes, Mingo Junction and St. Sylvester, Woodsfield, both in Ohio. She tutored at St. Nicholas, Zanesville, Ohio and helped with various tasks at Good Samaritan Medical Center, Zanesville. For several years Sister Jean lived at St. Francis Convent, Manitowoc, where she was a member of the Community’s Prayer Apostolate and helped with tasks as she was able. Since 2014 Sister Jean had been a member of St. Rita Health Center.

Survivors include the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, sister Ruth Koran and sister-in-law Mary Frances Phillipson; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents: Harry and Eva (Fonow) Phillipson; brother: Robert Phillipson; sisters (brothers-in law): Barbara Phillipson, Shirley (Charles) Huscroft, and (Robert) Koran.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:15 am on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at the Holy Family Convent Chapel, Manitowoc. Officiating will be the Rev. Placid Stroik, OFM, with burial to follow at the Holy Family Convent Cemetery.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Monday, December 8, 2025 at the Holy Family Convent, Manitowoc. A prayer service will be held at 7:00 pm at the Holy Family Convent Chapel. Visitation will continue Tuesday morning from 8:00 am until 10:00 am.

Memorial contributions may be made to support retired Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, in care of FSCC Retirement Fund, Holy Family Convent, 2409 S. Alverno Rd., Manitowoc, WI 54220

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com

Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Pfeffer Funeral Home of Manitowoc is assisting the family with arrangements. 

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