Cain, Sister Mary John of the Cross (Joan Evelyn) was called home to God after a brief illness on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the age of 87. Sr. Mary John was born in Cincinnati on March 29,1939. She was the daughter of Joseph and Rose Mary Cain.
Sister entered the Little Sisters of the poor in 1957 and made her First Profession in Queens, N.Y. on June 16,1959. Her Final Profession was made in La Tour, France on October 15,1964.
Sister Mary John’s first assignment was in New Orleans, working in the Kitchen. From there she went to Mobile to complete her Nursing Studies. After leaving France, she went to Washington, Pittsburgh, Troy (NY), Los Angeles, St. Paul, Palatine, Denver, Phoenix, Kansas City, SanPedro, Milwaukee, New Orleans, Indianapolis, Cincinnati and finally back to Pittsburgh for the 3rd time.
Sister was gifted intellectually with an extraordinary memory and could recall names, events and dates throughout her entire life. These traits enhanced the many services Sister rendered during her religious life as an Administrator, Director of Nursing. and Dietary Manager.
The physical challenges she endured were overcome by her fierce sense of independence. She never wanted to inconvenience anyone or be a burden to them. Sister was totally engaged with anyone she met on her frequent rounds as she traversed the four corners of the home and radiated her big, beautiful smile; this seemed to fulfill her desire to know and be involved with the daily happenings of the home, (Residents, Sisters, Families, AJJ members, Staff and Volunteers.
Assisting at the Reception desk was another area that brought much joy to Sister Mary John. She offered many encouraging words and a promise to pray for them or their intentions as she welcomed them to the home. Pastorally, Sister was the first to volunteer to accompany the Residents on their journey home to God; praying with them, sitting near the dying, leading the daily rosary or being a lector at Mass. Since her arrival in Pittsburgh, she introduced all new hires to St. Jeanne Jugan and the Little Sisters of the Poor Mission and Philosophy. Her computer skills came in handy too, creating cards and programs whenever there was a need in the community or home.
She thoroughly enjoyed assisting in the development office, sorting letters and making numerous phone calls to thank our many benefactors or resident families.
Sister Mary John is survived by her brother Jerry (Carol) and her Nieces and Nephews: Kimberly, Kevin, Michael, Rob (Kathy). Sister Mary John was preceded in death by her brother Robert and her sister Rosemary (Mickey).
Funeral Services will be celebrated at the Little Sisters of the Poor/ Sts. Peter and Paul Home, 1028 Benton Ave., Pittsburgh, PA. The Wake Service will be Monday, October 19th 2-8 pm. Mass of Resurrection will be Tuesday October 20th at 10:30 in the Gloria Chapel at the Little Sisters of the Poor, Internment following at Christ Our Redeemer Cemetery.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary (Sr. Mary John of the Cross, lsp) Cain, please visit our floral store.
Watch the funeral Mass for Sister Mary John of the Cross on October 20, 2026 at Little Sisters of the Poor, Pittsburgh PA:
