Obituary of Maureen Ann Sweeney

Maureen Ann Sweeney of Stowe, Pennsylvania passed away unexpectedly on Friday, May 14th. She was 51 years old. A social worker, world traveler, and humanitarian, she devoted her life to her family and community, and to supporting and caring for people in need. With boundless energy, Maureen brought her unique joy for life to all she met, lighting up the room wherever she went and inspiring others to look for the sunshine and adventure in each day.
 
Maureen was born on May 28, 1969 in Norristown, PA and grew up in Collegeville, PA where she attended Arrowhead Elementary School. She graduated from Methacton High School in Eagleville, PA and from College Misericordia in Dallas, PA with a BS in Liberal Studies and Certificate Program in Child Welfare Studies.  A trained social worker, Maureen was a Health Facility Quality Examiner for the Pennsylvania State Division of Nursing Care Facilities. She was a strong advocate for nursing home residents, fighting tirelessly to ensure that their rights and dignity were honored. She volunteered her time as secretary of the board for Helping Hands in Bechtelsville, PA, which provides enrichment programs and services for people with disabilities.  Maureen was a member of the Youth Aid Panel of the Lower Providence community in Montgomery County which helps give youth resources for success and a second chance.  
 
Maureen spent time in the Peace Corps assigned to the African nation of Namibia. She was an avid traveler, visiting places near and far including China, Peru, Costa Rica, Chile, Mexico, Canada, Europe, Kenya, New Zealand, Australia and treasured places throughout the United States. Maureen visited every continent except Antarctica.   She met countless new friends and was always the first to sign up for new challenges like bungee jumping and hot air ballooning. 
 
Through all her travels far and wide, Maureen's family remained the center of her world. She was preceded in death by her father Eugene J. Sweeney and is survived by her mother Jean Florig Sweeney of Collegeville, PA, her sister Kathleen Sweeney Scheier, her brother-in-law David Scheier and beloved nieces and nephew, Morgan, Michael and Erin Scheier of Madison, NJ. She is also survived by her cherished partner Jeff Whitlock of Stowe, PA and his children Ella and Collin Whitlock. 
 
Throughout her life, Maureen personified the ideals of putting others first. A kind, empathetic listener with an incredible laugh, Maureen reflected the words of her favorite song "You Are My Sunshine." Proud of her Irish roots, Maureen loved St. Patrick's Day and the opportunities all holidays give to celebrate with family and friends. She leaves a legacy of service, dedication to helping the vulnerable in society, and a shining example of how to live each day fully. Maureen was a bright light on Earth, and she will be forever missed. 

Maureen’s family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, June 5, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 11:15 AM in St. Eleanor's RC Church, 647 Locust Street, Collegeville, PA 19426.  A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 AM.  A luncheon and celebration of Maureen’s life will immediately follow the Mass.  Interment will be private at a later date in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, East Norriton, PA. 

The Mass will be live streamed for those who are unable to attend in person.  Please click the following link to be connected to the stream: https://vimeo.com/event/1052188

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Helping Hands, 415 Hoffmansville Road, Bechtelsville, PA 19505. 

Arrangements are by Moore, Snear & Ruggiero Funeral Home, 224 West Main Street, Trappe, PA, (610) 489-7900  www.msrfh.com