Sister Agnes Marie Kelleher RSM

Sister Agnes Marie Kelleher RSM, (formerly Alma Regina Kelleher) age 95, died peacefully at McAuley Convent in Merion, PA on October 1, surrounded by family members and her religious community of the Sisters of Mercy. Sister Agnes Marie graduated from West Catholic High School in 1939. She entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1947 and professed vows in 1952. Her ministries as a Sister of Mercy included teaching elementary school at Gwynedd Mercy Academy and Walsingham Academy, VA. She later became immersed for many years in the healthcare ministry serving at Mercy Hospital of Sea Isle, Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital and Mercy Hospital of Philadelphia.Her service in Allied Health spanned many years as a technician, administrator and instructor. She was known by her colleagues and staff to be very caring and supportive to all with whom she worked. One of her greatest adventures was being helicoptered to safety from Sea Isle Hospital during the storm of 1962 which wreaked havoc on the island. In later years, Sr. Agnes Marie continued her healthcare ministry in a pastoral role as a hospital chaplain and in the position of pastoral outreach to the West Philadelphia area community and churches. Her work in the Outreach ministry was a hallmark of her deep Mercy Spirit.In her retirement years she continued to maintain her interest in current events and was truly dedicated to justice issues. She made it a point to share meaningful articles with her Sisters in community and with her colleagues. Her relationships knew no boundaries; she related to the young and the old with equanimity. Many lives have been influenced by her lively spirit as evidenced in notes and letters from students and co-workers which were found among her keepsakes. Sister Agnes Marie was well loved by her family and community. Her 95th birthday celebration was a testament to the place she held in many hearts. Sister is survived by nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Services for Sister Agnes Marie will be Friday, October 7 at the Convent of Mercy Chapel, Merion Station with a viewing from 6:00-7:00 PM followed by the Liturgy of Christian Burial at 7:00 PM. Burial will be private. Contributions in Sister’s memory may be sent to the Sisters of Mercy Mid-Atlantic Community, 515 Montgomery Avenue, Merion Station, PA 19066.www.danjolell.com