Sam Stanton, and two of their children, in the foreground, and his wife, Cecilia Espinoza, and one of their children, in the background, in the village of Nirivilo, Chile, where they lived for two years. Taken on Dec. 25, 1986.
With deep sorrow, Maryknoll Lay Missioners announces the passing of Sam Stanton on Monday, Aug. 18. Surrounded by his devoted family, Sam entered into eternal life.
A dedicated missionary disciple throughout his life, Sam stood as a tireless advocate for justice, a cherished husband, father, and friend who radiated love, faith, and hope to all he encountered. His many contributions to the growth and vitality of Maryknoll Lay Missioners leave a lasting legacy, and we are grateful to have shared in his journey as part of the Maryknoll Family.
We hold Cecilia and all of Sam’s family in our hearts and prayers.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, Aug. 29, at 4 p.m. ET in the Queen of the Apostles Chapel at the Maryknoll Center in Ossining, New York. All are welcome to attend. The liturgy will also be live-streamed on this page.
Maryknoll Lay Missioners will continue to remember Sam as a faithful servant of mission. We entrust him to God’s eternal light and peace.
Elvira Ramirez
Executive Director
Read Sam’s last article: “Times change, the mission remains” from Nov. 2024.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Sam’s honor to Maryknoll Lay Missioners.
Compelled by faith to engage with people across cultures and ethnicities, Maryknoll lay missioners live, love and work with communities on the margins to promote active nonviolence and healing.
Desde Santiago de Chile atentos a la misa de celebración de vida y obra de Samuel Stanton , acá junto a Lucía Lopez, un abrazo a todos.
A beautiful tribute to a most loving man. God bless you all. Sam was all you say. We who benefited from his service and leadership have been greatly blessed by his example. Live on in the joy, Sam❤️
Johanna and Pete Kailing
Class of 1984 and 1994
I missed the livestream and am so grateful for this recording. What a beautiful celebration of LIFE and tribute that reflected the beautiful man that was our beloved Sam.
Blessings to all and peace to the Stanton Family.
Celine and Don Woznica