NEW BEDFORD - One of the most prominent members of the religious community on the Southcoast has passed away.

Sister Mary Rosellen Gallogly, a Sister of Mercy for nearly 70 years, died Saturday at Mount St. Rita Health Centre in Cumberland, Rhode Island. She was 87 years old.

Sister Rose, as she was known locally, began her teaching ministry in 1951 at St. Michael School in Providence, and was assigned to the St. James School in New Bedford in 1968.

In addition to teaching, Sister Rose was heavily involved in programs for non-English-speaking children, and also served as attendance supervisor and social worker in the New Bedford School System.

In 1982, Sister Rose was appointed director of Market Ministries Meals and Shelter, known today as Sister Rose's House. She continued in that ministry until 2014.

A remembrance service will be held on Wednesday, April 11, from 4-7 p.m. in New Bedford at Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals at 495 Park Street. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, April 12, at 11 a.m. at St. John Vianney Church in Cumberland, RI. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a Mercy Prayer Service at 10:40 a.m. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery, Cumberland, RI.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sister’s memory to the Sisters of Mercy, 15 Highland View Road, Cumberland, RI 02864 will be appreciated.

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