Age 86
Sister Barbara (formerly Sister M Cascia) was a Sister of Mercy for 66 years. She entered in 1954 and earned a degree in elementary education at Catholic Teachers College. She also attended Bryant College. Sister Barbara enjoyed teaching young children and served in several parish schools in the Dioceses of Fall River, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island. Eventually, she was assigned to St. Mary Academy Bay View, where she served as secretary to the principal. She loved these years at Bay View and enjoyed working with teachers, staff and students.
In her later years, she volunteered at Our Lady of LaSalette Shrine and the Warde-robe. Her greatest pleasure in these years came from her service given to sisters by providing transportation to appointments, shopping and recreational events. Sister Barbara was a good listener and responded to the needs of the sisters at St. Rose of Lima, Bay View and Franklin Court by always being ready to take them out and hear their stories.
In her last years at Franklin Court, Sister Barbara indulged her love of gardening. She planted and tended flowers and vegetables and assisted other residents with their gardens. She enjoyed the natural beauty of Bristol in her walks. For the residents and staff of Franklin Court, Sister Barbara was a beloved presence known for her kindness to all. The Franklin Court Assisted Living Community will miss her but will continue to emulate her kindness.