Obituaries
Archbishop Hunthausen, 96, led ecumenical efforts following Vatican II
The retired archbishop of Seattle esposed nuclear disarmament, broader roles for women in the church and outreach ministry to gays and lesbians. On ecumenism, he said, "we're all looking for ways to get to God."
Sister Marie Perpetua Sneeringer dies at age 94
Born and raised in the Harrisburg diocese, she entered the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1942 and ministered throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
Father James Whelan, former pastor of St. Kevin, dies at 72
After growing up in Northeast Philadelphia, Father Whelan was ordained in 1973. He is remember for his fraternity with fellow priests. Even in sickness, he was devoted to celebrating daily Mass.
Sister Elizabeth Ann Kealy, 73, served in South America for 17 years
The member of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary served for 55 years in the congregation. Her last assignment was as DRE in the upstate Pennsylvania coal region where she was born.
Sister Dorothy Patricia Quinn dies at age 91
After growing up in Philadelphia's Port Richmond section and graduating from Little Flower High School, she entered the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1944 and served throughout the Mid-Atlantic states.
Sister Dorothy Ann Smith dies at 77
The Philadelphia native attended Cathedral Grade School and St. Maria Goretti High School before entering the Sisters of St. Joseph in September 1960 and serving in three dioceses.
Sister Edward Mary McBride, 86, served in Phila. Archdiocese for 40+ years
The native of Northeast Philadelphia and St. Matthew Parish entered the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in 1950. Her last assignment was as a tutor at St. Matthew School until 2013.
Sister Marcella McHale dies at 84; served in South Philadelphia schools
After earning a degree in history, the Franciscan sister entered religious life in 1958 and ministered primarily in education, including schools in the Philadelphia Archdiocese.
Holy Child Sister who was first American Province leader dies at 87
Sister Elizabeth Fitzmaurice of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus made history when she was named to lead the reorganized society for the U.S. in 1976. She retained a life-long dedication to learning and leadership.
Sister Kathleen McMullin, 71, served in wide variety of ministries
The Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia observed her 50th year in religious life this year. She led a facility in Reading offering a transitional home for women leaving prison, and served in rural and urban parishes.