Sister Catherine Mary Dowling

Sister Catherine Mary Dowling (Sister Mariella) of the Sisters of Mercy died peacefully on June 5, 2015 at St. Mary Home. One of four children, Sister was born in Waterbury on July 13, 1934 to the late Edward and Helen (Bergin) Dowling. She attended St. Margaret Grammar School and Waterbury Catholic High School. As a child, she longed to become a Sister of Mercy; Catherine entered the convent on September 8, 1952 and professed her vows on August 16, 1955 thus achieving her childhood dream. She became an elementary school teacher upon receiving her B.A. Degree from Diocesan Teachers' College, Madison. Meticulous in classroom preparation, Sister ministered for many years in Naugatuck, New Haven, Norwich, Hartford, and was appointed Asst. Principal at St. James School, Manchester. She cherished ALL of the class photos of her students and participated actively supporting their basketball games as number one fan throughout her teaching career, saving some allegiance for the UCONN women's team. A reading specialist and dedicated teacher, she became a consultant to the Mercy Reading Clinic, W. Hartford. She not only tutored reading students, she successfully challenged them to a love for reading. Known for her sparkling spirit, kindness and hospitality, Sister served as Receptionist for Mercy Center at Madison until her retirement in 2007. Sister is predeceased by her sisters, Helen Walesky and Rosemary Babin and brother Edward Dowling. She is survived by her devoted godson and nephew Don Walesky, many other nieces and nephews into a third generation as well as her community of the Sisters of Mercy. Of generous spirit with a lively sense of humor and never at a loss for a kind word, Sister Kate will be greatly missed. A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at St. Mary Home 2021 Albany Ave. West Hartford on Wednesday, June 10 at 6:00p.m. preceded by calling hours from 3:00- 5:00p.m. Burial will take place on June 11 at 9:00a.m. at St. Mary Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in Sister's name are asked to consider Sisters of Mercy, 55 E. Cedar St. Newington, CT 06111. Taylor & Modeen Funeral Home, West Hartford has care of the arrangements. For online condolences please visit www.taylorandmodeen.com