Rita G. McNamara

McNAMARA Rita G. (nee Baldwin), age 91 on April 25, 2013 of Narberth. A retired school teacher and former resident of Waverly Heights in Gladwyne, PA, died from complications following a recent stroke. Mrs. McNamara retired from her position at Merion Mercy Academy in 1983 after chairing the History Department, establishing the College Guidance Office, and teaching a variety of courses during the 17 years she worked at the school. Since her retirement, she continued her support of the work of the Sisters of Mercy and their schools and missions. In addition, Mrs. McNamara actively supported Catholic higher education at her alma mater, the College of Mt. St. Vincent, Riverdale, NY., from which she graduated in 1940, and at Villanova University where her late husband, Joseph, attended college and served for many years in university development and on the Board of Trustees. While living in Waverly Heights since 2002, Mrs. McNamara, served on numerous committees, wrote several articles for the Waverly Window, and participated in the development of resident programs for the newly expanded assisted living portion of the community. Mrs. McNamara was a member of her parish, St. John Vianney Roman Catholic Church in Gladwyne, and the Overbrook Golf Club in Bryn Mawr, PA. Born and raised in New York City, NY, and having lived for nearly 60 years in Pennsylvania, Mrs. McNamara brought her passion and commitment for learning and education to all of her endeavors, both personal and professional, and will be remembered by all of those whose lives she touched and enriched during her time among us. Predeceased by her husband Joseph M. McNamara. Mrs. McNamara is survived by three children, a daughter-in-law, two grandchildren, a great grandchild and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to her Viewing Wed. 9:30-10:15 A.M. followed by her Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 A.M. at St. John Vianney Church, Youngsford Road and Route 23 Gladwyne, PA 19035. Interment Calvary Cemetery. Contributions in her memory to Joseph M. and Rita G. McNamara Endowed Dean’s Scholarship, c/o Director of Development, University Advancement, Villanova University, 800 Lancaster Ave. Villanova, PA 19085-1673 would be appreciated.