SALISBURY, MD – Coastal Hospice announced today with profound sadness the passing of its inaugural President, Marion Keenan and extend heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.
“On behalf of Coastal Hospice, I would like to express our sadness in the passing of our founder and former President, Marion Keenan. Marion was part of a committee of innovators that brought hospice care to our community over 44 years ago,” said Ann Lovely, Interim President and CEO of Coastal Hospice. “Her leadership and spirit of service made a profound impact in our organization and those we cared for during her tenure. Marion will forever be missed as we continue to carry on her vision.”
A pioneer and remarkable leader, her life was a testament to her compassion and dedication to the dignity and comfort of those in their final days. As the inaugural leader of Coastal Hospice, she laid the foundation for a compassionate and dedicated organization, forever changing the landscape of end-of-life care on the Lower Eastern Shore.
Marion Keenan served as President of Coastal Hospice for twenty seven years. With unwavering commitment, Marion navigated the challenges of building a new organization. Her vision and determination brought Coastal Hospice to life, transforming what started as a Home Health Agency covering a 15 mile radius in Salisbury, MD into the organization we are today, serving four counties, and covering more than 2,600 square miles. Without a doubt, her leadership was a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for us all to follow.
As our first president, she set the highest standards for excellence in care, securing our place among the first hospices to earn a Joint Commission accreditation. Her innovative approach and relentless advocacy for patient-centered care ensured that each person received not only medical care but also emotional and spiritual support, first at home and later at Coastal Hospice at the Lake, the 14-bed inpatient facility at Deer’s Head Hospital Center that she championed and helped found in 2004.
Her leadership extended beyond Coastal Hospice walls. She was a tireless advocate for advancing the field of palliative care, partnering with Peninsula Regional Medical Center (now TidalHealth Peninsula Regional) to provide palliative care services for patients receiving treatment at the Medical Center and laying the foundation for what is now Coastal Palliative Care.
Marion was instrumental in the founding of what is now the Hospice and Palliative Care Network of Maryland, serving many terms on its Board of Directors and different committees. Her affiliation with NHPCO allowed her to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to ensure the needs of the terminally ill were recognized and addressed. She helped establish the standards and regulations that govern hospice care in Maryland and across the nation. Her efforts elevated the healthcare community and inspired many to follow in her footsteps.
Even in her final days, she faced her own journey with the same grace and courage that defined her presidency. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the incredible impact she had on Coastal Hospice and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and profound care. Her legacy of compassion and excellence will continue to guide us and inspire future generations.
Marion’s groundbreaking leadership and boundless love for humanity have left an indelible mark on this world. Coastal Hospice’s Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and supporters have utmost gratitude for her service, her vision, and her unwavering dedication. Marion Keenan will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Obituary from Holloway Funeral Home: www.hollowayfh.com/obituaries/Marion-Frances-Keenan?obId=32414734
Pictured: Marion Keenan, Founder and Former Coastal Hospice President.
Contact Information
Alejandra Lazcano, Director of Communications: 410-742-8732 ext. 541 alazcano@coastalhospice.org
About Coastal Hospice Founded in 1980, Coastal Hospice is a non-profit health care organization that cares for individuals facing life-limiting conditions who want to remain active and engaged during the final chapter of their lives. Coastal Hospice cares for patients in their own homes, as well as in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and at Coastal Hospice at the Lake and Macky & Pam Stansell House. The organization also provides palliative care to treat symptoms and relieve the pain of a terminal illness or injury. Named a 2021 “Hospice Honors” recipient by HEALTHCAREfirst.
To learn more about Coastal Hospice, which serves Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties, visit www.coastalhospice.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
