In Memoriam

Sister Dorothy's parents, Mary Smith and George Leising, instilled deep faith in their 9 children, with two sons, ordained as priests, and their daughters Dorothy, Blanche, and Florence all becoming School Sisters of Notre Dame! In her words, “I felt drawn to them in a special way. Their whole-hearted, self-sacrificing lives radiated through every day.” May Dottie’s boundless love and energy permeate our SSND life.

Pat’s kind and gentle heart was shared with sisters and laity alike. Many will remember her simple greeting, “How are you doing?” After her teaching years in New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, her dreams Mission work finally came true. Pat spent 33 years in South America, where she had key responsibilities in the transition of our Latin American missions to become the District of Latin America. Pat walked right into heaven! We’ll miss her, but we can’t take that joy away from her.

In her ministries both as a Sister of Christian Charity and a School Sister of Notre Dame, Ann Louise served as teacher, Director of Religious Education, and Pastoral Associate in a variety of locations in NJ and PA. A highlight of her ministry came in 1992 when she was missioned to La Paz, Bolivia for a year. Ann Louise entered eternal glory at Stella Maris after a day shared praying with her sisters. She is remembered fondly for her love of butterflies and dancing. We are grateful for you, may you rest in the loving arms of our God.

Sister Joan Minella, served as a Provincial Councilor in Baltimore from 1987 to 1996 and remembered the time very proudly. After her time on the Council, and at the Generlate she served as a Pastoral Life Director, and later as the archivist at the Institute of Notre Dame. Sister Rita Bueche shares this “‘When I stand before God at the end of my life, I hope I will be able to say I used every gift you gave me.’ That was you, Joan. Not an unused minute, not one word wasted… And when you entered heaven, Mother Theresa said to you: Relax, Joan. Everything is already well organized.” ”

Sister Norma's ministry was as a teacher from 1960 to 2001. For over 70 years, Sister Norma answered her call to work and pray for her God and others. When recounting her Perpetual Vows from July 29, 1960, Sister Norma said, “I think this fulfilled my fondest dream of becoming a School Sister of Notre Dame.” We remember and give thanks for Norma's generous spirit among us.

Sister Marie Vianney Gallagher wrote in 1986 “A religious vocation is certainly a gift, and the Lord invites us to accept this call. Why the Lord has chosen me is a mystery, but I am grateful and humbled. I am proud to be a professed religious woman.” In her vocation, she served as teacher, principal, and in many leadership roles that benefited many men and women religious. We are grateful for you, may you rest in the loving arms of our God.

Sister Mary served in leadership at Catholic schools for 57 years! She worked totally in education. . . the very essence of Mother Theresa’s vision. Sister Marie Kathleen Dunham shared about Mary at her wake service: "Mary was devoted greatly to the Blessed Mother, and always had a rosary. She frequently said that Mary took care of her. May she enjoy eternal happiness.

Elizabeth Marie Mathis was professed in 1952, given the name Donita, and began teaching primary grades. In 1975, she decided to become a nurse and served as an RN in the Chicago Area, retiring in 2015. Sister Donita is remembered as a gentle person with a beautiful smile… a calming, quiet authority, and a sense of balance, wonderful qualities when helping those in need. May Sister Donita rest in peace.

Blessed with a great sense of humor and a love of people, Sister Celeste taught and was involved in pastoral ministry at several locations in Ontario. From 1983 to 1989 Sister Celeste lived on the Reserve of the Ojibway community at Grassy Narrows, ON. She was honoured with a white eagle feather and the Asubpeeschoseewagong name Megezeequ, Eagle Woman. We trust that Celeste is experiencing happiness in the brilliance of heaven.

Sister Ann loved singing and serving, first as a creative and talented classroom teacher and later as a Pastoral Associate, Health Care Ministry Coordinator, and Coordinator of Pastoral Visitors. In retirement, She continued to be creative and energetic, "a gentle, loving woman, kind and compassionate, deeply spiritual, and a happy, joyful person". Sister Ann was beloved by many. May God welcome her home.

Sister Ellen spent 29 years as a teacher, and then moved into healthcare. She became a Home Health Aide and then a Licensed Practical Nurse. She especially loved providing home care, geriatrics, and therapeutic recreation. Sister Peg Regan said at her Wake, “She went beyond what was required and helped heal spirits as well as bodies. Ellen treated everyone with kindness and a listening ear and would bring meals to needy patients.” May Sister Ellen rest in peace.