SALISBURY — Coastal Hospice has announced the passing of its inaugural president, Marion Keenan.
“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, hospice officials said 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.
Keenan served as President of Coastal Hospice for twenty-seven years. With unwavering commitment, she navigated the challenges of building a new organization, officials said.
Officials said her vision and determination brought Coastal Hospice to life, transforming what started as a Home Health Agency covering a 15-mile radius in Salisbury into the organization it is 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, officials said.
Coastal Hospice officials said Keenan set the highest standards for excellence in care, securing its 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, officials said.
Officials said 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.
Keenan 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. Officials said as they mourn her loss, they 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.
Keenan’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.
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