Sister Ruth “RSM” Mulligan

Sister Ruth Mulligan, RSM, age 85, a member of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, died peacefully on February 20, 2025, at McAuley Convent in Merion, PA.

March 16, 1939, was a day of great rejoicing for the Mulligan family as a new addition, fun-loving little Ruth, joined the happy Irish clan. Ruthie was dearly loved by her parents, William and Josephine, and her five siblings: William, Charles, Marlene, Joanne, and Robert. Family and faith were an integral part of life for Ruthie. She grew up in Philadelphia and attended Holy Child Parish School and Little Flower High School, where she first met the Sisters of Mercy. She responded to God’s call to become a Sister of Mercy, entering Mater Misericordiae Convent on September 14, 1958.

Ruthie’s life as a dedicated vowed religious was marked by a broad expanse of service in various ministries for over sixty years. Bringing her joy, generosity, and heart of mercy, Ruthie served as a teacher, principal, Director of Religious education, Pastoral Associate, Director of Pastoral Care, and caseworker at Mercy Hospice. A highlight for Ruthie and our community of Mercy was her service as a team member at Mercy International Centre in Dublin, Ireland.

Ruthie’s relationships with her family, friends, and sisters in the community can best be described as kind, gentle, faithful, fun-filled, uplifting, and memorable. Her humor and contagious laughter brought sunshine to all who knew and loved her. Ruthie patiently accepted and bore her sufferings in union with Jesus. We rejoice and give thanks for this witness and the goodness of Ruthie’s life. May she rest in peace with God for time and eternity.

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