Posted April 9, 2018

Sister Veronica Gavin, R.S.M., a member of the Sisters of Mercy Mid-Atlantic Community, died March 9 at age 71 at McAuley Convent in Merion. She earned her B.S. degree in elementary education from Gwynedd Mercy University as well as her A.S. and M.S.N. in nursing from the university.

“Ronnie,” as she was known by her family and friends, began her ministry in elementary education teaching primary grades at St. Denis School, Havertown, and Waldron Mercy Academy where she kept close association until her death.

After completing her nursing degrees, Sister Veronica served in many different capacities in many health settings: Mercy Hospital Philadelphia then Misericordia Hospital; Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and in her later years as hospice nurse with Vitas Hospice at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital.

She also served as nurse practitioner in a private practice. Her greatest love was accompanying people with dignity as they were dying.

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Sister Ronnie had a great love of family and friends. Despite her long illness she kept a close connection and expressed her love and care through regular phone calls. Her hospice associates continued to seek her advice with regular consultations. She had a passion for her ministry of healing which was evident to all who knew her.

In addition to her religious community, Sister Ronnie is survived by her brother Jerry, her sister-in-law Kathy Gavin, her nieces Theresa White and Beth Gavin and her nephew John Gavin as well as her grand-nephews and nieces. She is predeceased by her parents, Veronica and John Gavin and her brother John.

The funeral Mass was celebrated March 17 in the Chapel at the Convent of Mercy, Merion Station.  Burial followed in the community cemetery. Contributions in Sister Veronica’s memory may be sent to the Sisters of Mercy Mid-Atlantic Community.