Sr. Mary Loretta Carrigan, OP

Sister Mary Loretta Carrigan, OP, 90, of Sacred Heart Convent, died peacefully at 6:05 p.m. on May 7, 2004 at the Dominican Sisters Motherhouse in Springfield. Sister M. Loretta was born in Murrayville on January 4, 1914 to John and Margaret (McGrath) Carrigan. After graduating from Routt High School in Jacksonville in 1930, she was accepted as a postulant (candidate) by the Springfield Dominican Sisters in July and professed her vows in 1933. Sister M. Loretta served for 54 years as teacher and principal in Catholic parish elementary schools in Illinois: Chicago (St. Edwards), Aurora (Holy Agnes), East Moline (St. Mary), Bradley (St. Joseph), in the Springfield Diocese at St. Thomas, Newton (1946 – 49) and Holy Ghost, Jerseyville (1956 – 62). Sister also taught for three years in Redlands, CA. In 1990, Sister M. Loretta returned to the Motherhouse where she enjoyed her ministry as tutor to both students and adults from the Springfield area, and to religious sisters from foreign countries who needed help in learning the English language. From 1993 – 1999, Sister was also the spiritual director for the Sacred Heart Chapter of the Dominican Laity. Finally in 1999 ill health forced her to relinquish all these much loved responsibilities. However, she continued to entertain her sisters and visitors with her wit and stories. Sister was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers: Vincent and James; and two sisters: Catherine and Eleanor. She is survived by her nephews James Carrigan of Jacksonville and Michael Carrigan of Nixa, MO; nieces: Judy Buck and Joan Willard both of Jacksonville; and her Dominican Sisters with whom she lived and ministered for 74 years. Friends may call at Sacred Heart Convent Motherhouse from 3:30 – 7:00 on Sunday, May 9, 2004 with Vigil Services at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 10, 2004 at Sacred Heart Convent with Rev. Peter Witchousky, OP, as presider. Final Commendation and Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery. The family of Sister Mary Loretta Carrigan, OP, and her Dominican Sisters are being served by Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.