2025 Légion d'honneur Inductees
Mary Jo Voisard
Pauline Monnin (Sister Mary Carmelita)
Mary Jo Voisard is a remarkable individual whose dedication to her community and selfless service have made a profound and lasting impact on Russia, Ohio, and beyond. Through decades of leadership, volunteerism, and generosity, she has continuously invested her time, talents, and resources into initiatives that benefit current residents and future generations.
Mary Jo served as the Treasurer of Russia Local School for an impressive 27 years, ensuring financial stability and operational excellence for the district. Her diligent stewardship supported the education of countless students and demonstrated her unwavering commitment to fostering opportunities for young people. Beyond the school system, she contributed her expertise as the Fiscal Officer for the Village of Russia for 13 years, playing a key role in maintaining the fiscal health of the community and supporting its development.
Mary Jo’s involvement extends far beyond her professional roles. She is an active participant in numerous organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life in Russia. As a member of the Russia Ladies Park Group, she worked to raise funds for the original playground equipment at Russia Park, creating a safe and welcoming space for children and families. Her contributions as a board member of the Russia Civic Association and the United Way of Shelby County further exemplify her dedication to the community, as does her service on the boards of the Russia Library and St. Remy Pastoral Council.
Mary Jo’s commitment to building a stronger, more vibrant community is evident in her philanthropic contributions to key local projects. Her support for the Russia Activity Center, the Russia Park Pavilion, and the Splash Pad underscores her belief in the power of shared spaces to bring people together. These facilities not only enhance the community’s recreational opportunities but also serve as gathering places that strengthen social bonds and foster a sense of belonging.
What sets Mary Jo apart is her selflessness and her vision for the future. She has consistently prioritized the needs of others, giving generously of her time and resources to ensure that her community thrives. Her efforts to support education, recreation, and community engagement reflect her deep investment in the well-being of future generations. Through her leadership, Mary Jo has helped create a legacy of collaboration and generosity that will inspire others to continue building upon the foundation she has laid.
In every role she has undertaken, Mary Jo Voisard has exemplified the values of service, compassion, and community spirit. Her life’s work stands as a testament to the power of selfless dedication and a reminder that one person’s efforts can make an extraordinary difference. The people of Russia, Ohio, and beyond are fortunate to have benefitted from her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Sister Mary Carmelita (Pauline Monnin) dedicated her life to serving others and spreading the love of Christ through her words, actions, and unwavering faith. Her extraordinary journey began when she professed her final vows with the Sisters of the Precious Blood in August 1956, embarking on a vocation deeply rooted in service, compassion, and the mission of Mother Brunner, “that not one drop of His blood be shed in vain.”
Sister Mary Carmelita’s ministry began in Dayton, Ohio, where she served as a teacher at Resurrection Elementary School from 1953 to 1958. Her love for education and her commitment to nurturing the faith of young students was evident during these early years. However, her calling to serve those in greater need led her far from Ohio to the mission fields of Chile, where she spent over 55 years ministering to the poor and marginalized.
Arriving in Chile in 1959, Sister Mary Carmelita quickly immersed herself in the lives of the people she served, working in various communities including Purranque, Saint Gaspar School, Froilan Roa, La Florida, Cerro Navia, and Santiago. She served as an English and Religion teacher, sharing knowledge and the Word of God with her students. She also became an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, bringing Christ’s presence to those who could not attend Mass. Through her pastoral ministry and social work, she addressed the spiritual and material needs of the poor, embodying Christ’s love in her actions.
In addition to her direct service, Sister Mary Carmelita held leadership roles that allowed her to expand her impact. As Vicariate Director, she guided and supported others in their ministries, fostering a spirit of collaboration and faithfulness among her colleagues. Her leadership was always rooted in humility and her desire to uplift those around her, particularly the most vulnerable members of society.
She passed away on June 20, 2015, at her home in Santiago, Chile, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and unwavering faith. Sister Mary Carmelita’s life exemplified the mission of Mother Brunner and the Sisters of the Precious Blood, ensuring that Christ’s sacrifice was not in vain. Her work in Chile transformed countless lives and continues to inspire others to serve with the same selflessness and love she so generously gave.
Sister Mary Carmelita’s life was a shining example of what it means to be Christ’s hands and feet in the world, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.