In Memoriam

Sister Peg lived a life of service. Rev. Lawrence B. Terrien, PSS, presided over her service, memorializing Sister Peg, saying, I join all of you in giving thanks to God, who, by showing us in the life of his daughter and disciple, Sister Peg, helped us to see that Jesus did not take the kingdom back to heaven with him at his ascension. He continues to manifest his presence in people like Sister Peg, who took those beatitudes to heart, who worked to serve that kingdom and to show that it is possible to live here and now - the way I believe she is still living that life fully in the presence of her and our mighty Lord.”

Sister Virginia was dedicated to spiritual life and sharing her love of connection with others. Her leadership was evident even after a diagnosis, which limited her mobility; she maintained an attitude of compassion for others and a sense of humor sprinkled with sarcasm. We give thanks for her generous spirit among us.

Always a responsible and industrious person, Catherine Hayes worked in various jobs as a teen. In her senior year of high school, she asked to enter the School Sisters of Notre Dame. It was the example of the sisters that attracted her. She took the name John Mary. After years of teaching and caring for others, she moved to Ozanam Hall, where she would regale her sisters with music in the day room. We give thanks for her generous spirit among us.

As a Teacher, Religious Education Director, and English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, Sister Mary offered a “beautiful presence” to all. In retirement, Sister Mary visited sisters in assisted living, remembered their birthdays, and was responsible for numerous acts of quiet kindness. We give thanks for her generous spirit among us.

Agnes (Ume) Tashiro's grew up in Japan, becoming a teacher in Kyoto, where she met the SSNDs. After taking vows in 1957, she eventually became the President of ND Women’s College in Kyoto. In 2004, Mary Michael transferred to the AM Province. She is remembered for her love of cooking, singing, and ability to make joyous connections with many people, especially her students. We give thanks for her generous spirit among us.

Sister Rose Lindner's ministry was focused on animating others through education, advocacy, and action in response to urgent social needs. Rose served in a variety of ministries including teaching, prison ministry, parish outreach, and evangelization. She served for many years at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in DC, also at St. Bernadette in Severn, St. Joseph in Cockeysville, and later volunteered at Mother Seton Academy. We thank God for bestowing the gift of Rose upon her family, religious communities, ministries, and the people of God.

On Palm Sunday, March 29,1920, a tornado hit Connecticut, but more important was the birth of baby Irene to John George and Mary Elzabeth (Burchik) Spodnik. She is one of three of the Spodnik sisters to become a School Sister of Notre Dame. In her ministries, she served Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. On the morning of May 15, Teresia quietly and peacefully surrendered her spirit into the arms of her Loving Father and joined her parents and brothers, Fr. Leo and Larry.

When she retired from over 60 years of teaching, Sister Mary Earle summed up her belief in education saying “Girls are women of the future, and that’s very important. Women have much more influence than they realize, and they have always had that.” We remember Sister Mary Earle and give thanks for her generous spirit among us.

Sister Clare was a teacher, creator, leader, witty, brilliant, and theatrical. Clare was the embodiment of a missionary. She dedicated her life to teaching about Jesus Christ and the Christian faith. While she was not known for being a woman of few words, her main message, with all the flair of her personality, was to tell us that, “Jesus loves you!” even if it took her 45 minutes! We give thanks for Sister Clare's generous, creative spirit!

Sister Lorraine "Ronnie" Burns was a Buffalonian, deeply committed to her friends, family, and SSND. After teaching in Baltimore, New Jersey, Connecticut, New York, and Africa, it was in Rochester, NY that she founded the Notre Dame Learning Center. As was said by a colleague, ‘Lorraine’s service focused on the Gospel message—she was kind and loving to all. We will remember Lorraine always! May God welcome her home.