In Memoriam

Sister Bernice did not consider herself “elderly,” even though she was 101. She insisted on using the stairs from first to fourth floor rather than using the elevator. Her limited vision and difficulty hearing did not deter her from walking the halls and chatting with those she met.

A wonderful Sister and community member, Theresa also spent 36 years at St. Matthias in Ridgewood, Queens, New York. There she was an excellent teacher and member of the school staff, but by all accounts, she was “a master math teacher.”  A colleague said, “She could teach math to anyone.” In a life booklet created with her family, Theresa had written, “All I ever wanted was to be a good Sister and a good teacher.” And she was.

Sister Joan celebrated her 90th birthday, the day before her passing, with her niece and MANY birthday wishes from those at Marian Village. Her niece festooned her room with balloons. At her funeral at the Marian Village chapel her prayer card included the quote from ­You Are Sent, the SSND constitution: “SENT TO PROCLAIM GOD’S LOVE THROUGH MY LIFE.” May she be experiencing eternal Joy!

A teacher and an artist, Bea was a quiet, gentle presence in community, She expressed her gift for contemplation in praying all the hours of the Divine Office every day. Few Sisters knew this about her, but her graced life shone in her quiet humor and generosity.