CHICAGO (WLS) — On Tuesday, dignitaries and city leaders gathered to pay respects to Chicago’s Sister Rosemary Connelly.
Sister Connelly, known for her work at the Misericordia in Rogers Park, died Thursday at the age of 94.
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Sister Connelly collaborated with Father Jack Clair for nearly thirty years at Misericordia, a place spanning almost 40 acres dedicated to assisting individuals with developmental disabilities, all founded on the unwavering belief of a singular woman.
Sister Connelly joined Sisters of Mercy at 18, and went on to be appointed the administrator at Misericordia.
“Many of my friends and relatives have experienced Sister Connelly’s impact at Misericordia, witnessing her deep affection for the kids and young adults under her care. She truly cherishes them and also shows great appreciation for those who support her cause. I was told that she expressed her gratitude to volunteers at Misericordia shortly before her passing,” recounted Father Wayne Watts.
Dozens filled Holy Name Cathedral on Tuesday for a funeral Mass. Cardinal Blase Cupich led the mass.
“Sister Rosemary, may the angels, may they take you to the eternal city and find a place of resting,” Cupich said.
Sister Rosemary Connelly died Thursday at the age of 94.
Cupich read a message from the office of Pope Leo XIV.
Pope Leo XIV expressed his sorrow upon learning about Sister Rosemary’s passing and extended his heartfelt condolences to all connected with Misericordia, as acknowledged by Cupich.
“If you met her, you really wanted to be a part of Misericordia. She really was a champion for people with disabilities, and she’s really a hero. She’s a hero in the city of Chicago and across the country,” said Julie O’Sullivan, director of events and public relations at Misericordia.
Her work led her to receiving dozens of humanitarian awards and nine honorary doctorates from places likes Notre Dame, St. Mary College, Loyola and DePaul. But, the real honor was the love she leaves behind.
Father Clair at Misericordia said Sister Connelly would not want the work to stop. They’ve got lots of plans to continue her mission, including expanding the campus.
READ MORE | Misericordia’s Sister Rosemary Connelly, known for work helping those with disabilities, dies at 94
Even in recent years, Connelly was still eager to hear how things were going for residents.
“It’s very emotional; I’ve been at her side for 25 years now, and she clearly wanted me to take over the job. So it’s a humbling experience,” Father Clair said.
Hugh Connelly is her nephew. He said his older brother’s brain damage inspired Sister Connelly to expand services for adults with disabilities.
“She saw in them and my brother, Brian, a great need. And she stepped up to the plate and hit a home run,” Connelly said.
Holly Jennings’ son, Ryan, has been a resident for nine years.
“They have a great life; he’s living his best life. And it’s all because of Sister, her vision,” Jennings said.
Some in attendance said they directly benefitted from Sister’s work.
Some did not know her, but honor her legacy.
The Walsh family hopes their daughter, Jodi, can be a resident at Misericordia.
“Sister Rosemary has been a beacon. I’m gonna cry now: a beacon of care for folks with disabilities,” Lisa Walsh said.
Sister Connelly will be buried after a private service with the Sisters of Mercy Wednesday.
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