Miriam M. Najimy DHM
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Miriam M. Najimy, born May 4, 1931, passed away on March 10, 2022. Born in Boston she was the daughter of the late Charles and Margaret Smart Najimy. After graduation from Pittsfield High School in 1949, Miriam was employed by the Veteran's Service in Pittsfield and the Selective Service in Lee, MA.
Miriam entered the Daughters of the Heart of Mary (DHM) and made her first vows in 1962 and perpetual vows in 1972. Her retreat ministries were world-wide from Holyoke, MA and Plattsburgh, NY to Paris, London, Ethiopia and beyond.
As a DHM Miriam obtained a B.A. from La Salle University, Philadelphia, PA. She continued her education at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. as well as through workshops, conferences, and private studies.
Miriam held two offices at the Marian Center at different times: Director of the Center and later, Provincial. She also served as Provincial of the U.S. Providence. Miriam was a Board Member of Nardin Academy, Buffalo, NY; Saint Joseph's School for the Deaf, Bronx, NY; and Adelaide's Place in New Jersey.
Miriam is survived by a family she adored as much as they adore her: sister Vivien Najimy Delgado (Emi); sister-in-law Cheri Najimy; nieces, Lynnette Najimy, Allyce Najimy (Smitty), Rena Rose (Wally), Merrie Najimy (Gabe), Beth Delgado. Nephews, Albert Najimy (Laura), Charles Najimy (Amy), Robert Najimy (Kerry). Third generation: Scott, Jesse, Jenna, Christopher, Alice, Anna, Cal, James, Leah, Lily, Sheree, Molly, Sydney, Jayden and Juliana.
Miriam was predeceased by her brothers, Norman and his wife Jacqueline, Robert and his partner Pam Curry, and brother Charles N. (Chuck).
Funeral services Friday March 18, 2022, at Blessed Sacrament Church, Holyoke, MA at 11:00 AM. Donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or to the Marian Center Retreat House, Holyoke, MA.
To celebrate "Mim's life" the family wants you to know how beloved she was to so many. A quiet angel, an unsung heroine, a selfless soul among many. Quietly she reached out to those in need or suffering, giving comfort to children as well. Her love knew no bounds. She delighted in family. Miriam never missed a birthday, and she was a master at choosing just the right card. In spite of her daunting schedule, she always made a great effort to attend family events: recitals, games, graduations, weddings, holidays. Mim loved to laugh. She had many humorous stories to tell and loved to laugh at the family's tales, too.
Miriam's love was unconditional, and non-judgmental. Her energy was boundless, her compassion deep. Her wisdom and faith were gifts to all who knew her. She changed lives. Miriam wanted everyone to know God loves us all unconditionally. She was passionate about treating people with love and kindness and seeking the truth. Anyone who truly knew her was inspired by her.
Miriam embraced the world with passion and hope, love, and faith.
Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, Holyoke, MA (413)536-3843