Marie Cirrillo has portion of road dedicated in her honor

Roses Creek Road  

By Charlotte Underwood

CLAIFIELD, TN (WLAF)- Sister Marie Cirrillo, dear friend of the late Jackie Kennedy and who hosted Caroline Kennedy here in Campbell County in the summer of 1973, was posthumously honored on Wednesday afternoon when a portion of Roses Creek Road was named in her honor.

Campbell County Mayor Jack Lynch read the proclamation recognizing nun Sister Marie Cirrillo, who passed away at the age of 94 on July 4th of last year (2024).

“I met her nine years ago, sat down with her in White Oak and had a talk with her. She has quite the history in Campbell County,” Lynch said.

Cirillo, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1929, joined the Glenmary Sisters and was sent to work in rural Appalachia.

Mayor Lynch read her proclamation into record last year at the August Commission meeting and again at Wednesday’s dedication ceremony.

“She dedicated her life serving the Clearfork Valley Community with unwavering compassion and kindness and whereas her selfless commitment to the people of Appalachia has left an indelible mark on the region inspiring countless individuals through her tireless efforts and whereas her heart for Appalachia has been evident in her tireless work providing comfort, support and hope for those in need, making a profound impact on lives of many. Now therefore we honor and celebrate the remarkable life and legacy of Sister Marie Cirillo.”

Cirillo worked for years with the citizens of Clairfield, after she moved to the area in 1967. She lived and spent the rest of her life in the mountains helping the community build legacies such as the Clairfield Community Health Clinic, Model Valley Economic Development Corporation, Woodland Community Land Trust, Clearfork Utility District and Clearfork Institute.

Cirillo’s work was recognized on a world level, and many know her name and the legacy she left here in Appalachia.

“She was a big help to the folks of Clairfield and we would like to dedicate a piece of Roses Creek Road in her memory… may her example of love, service and dedication continue to inspire future generations…,” Mayor Lynch said. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-09/18/2025-6AM)