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Sister Paul Mercedes Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Sister Paul Mercedes
179 Entries
November 6, 2013
still remembering. Pat Sullivan.Darby Pa
KYLIE JENNER
January 18, 2013
MISSYOJ
John
January 12, 2012
Sister Paul was one of my teachers at BVM in Darby. She was a consistent and awesome teacher and person and I am glad she touched many others.
Pat Myers
October 27, 2011
Sister Paul was my 7th & 8th grade teacher in the 70's at St Gabriel School in South Philly. She was such a sweet person. I will never forget her.
C. M.
September 27, 2010
May the God of all comfort, bring comfort to the family and friends of Mercedes. We look forward time when sickness and death is a thing of the past.
Susan Lavin
February 8, 2008
Sister Paul, SMT lost a wonderful member of our family today, Please take care of Meg, and help her children and her husband get through this sad time. You are missed and never forgotten....love Susan Lavin
parent st martin of tours student
January 6, 2008
Thinking about Sister Paul Mercedes today and remembering her tragic death.Please pray for all of us.
We remember you with loving thoughts as you were the best.
As the anniversary of your accident is upon us please know that you are thought of often.
Lenny Bandoch
December 4, 2007
Sister Paul, Your picture greets all those who enter our Annunciation BVM School & now we are closing. Please help our teachers & students, parishioners & alumni deal with this unsettling time & transition! You always loved this school & I know if you were still with us we would have heard from you offering your prayers & help. So I'll now ask you in Heaven to help us all deal with yet another loss! I miss you!!! Love, Lenny
Susan Lavin
December 1, 2007
Happy Birthday Sister Paul....I know your birthday is coming up, we are thinking of you and know you are celebrating with the angels. You are always missed and loved....
(Nephew) Guy Medbery
May 4, 2007
Wonderful Aunt Mercie! Where do I begin Baby?!?! Was it that "go getter" attitude, the "extra tight" hugs, the GENUINE smile that you'd give EVERYTIME you made contact with another individual? I could literally write a book about you Doll! I'll try & keep it as short & sweet as possible. The way I felt in your presence was simple. Everyone who reads this, please try & remember the way you felt as a child - POSITIVE, NOTHING CAN GO WRONG, FILLED WITH PISS & VINEGAR, STRENGTH OUT THE WAZOO & READY TO ROCK & ROLL AT ANY TIME. Then you get a little older & life throws a few beatings your way, then a few more. You ask yourself, where's that fire that once lived inside of me? It used to blaze like a forrest out of control. Most of us are lucky if we can still feel the warmth of a flame the size of a match. Some of us even forget that a fire even existed at some point. Let me make it real clear what kind of an influence my Aunt Mercie had on us - EVERY TIME I WAS IN HER PRESENCE, SHE POURED GASOLINE ALL OVER THE SMALL FLAME THAT BURNED INSIDE OF ME & TURNED MY MENTAL WELL BEING INTO AN INFERNO OF HAPPINESS. Am I saddened by her death? Sometimes a LOT, sometimes a little, sometimes NOT AT ALL because of the knowledge that she helped raise me with. But I know one things for sure - I'd rather have an Aunt like MY FANTASTIC Aunt Mercie for the short 32 years of my life than ANY OTHER AUNT for the REST of my life. You were a soldier for the Lord & were LOUD & CLEAR about that Baby! ENJOY your time with God & we'll be catching up at a later date. Until then, THANK YOU for teaching me how to ENJOY my time on earth. I LOVE YOU.... Guy
Thomas Harkin
April 23, 2007
Sister Paul, my 8th grade teacher at BVM in Darby, was a religious who loved her vocation and had a deep love for her Spouse. I can fondly remember her as a woman I find inspiring and loving. I still think of her alot and miss her, hard to believe that she is no longer with us. We have gained an intercessor in Heaven and lost a good woman on earth. Hopefully in time our sorrow will abate and we will be left with the loving memories of one of Our Lady's best.
Susan Lavin
March 8, 2007
Sister Paul, you are missed so much. Please shine down upon us as we hold the Second Annual Sister Paul Mercedes Scholarship Fund Basketball tournament on April 21st and April 22nd, at St. Martin of Tours. We know you will be with us in spirit. You are loved and missed!
Sarah
December 5, 2006
Sister Paul. She Changed my Life and outlook on life. She was my 8th grade teacher at St. Martin of Tours. She is, Till this day, the Greatest teacher I ever had and possibly the greatest PERSON I have ever met. She will NEVER be forgotten. I wish I could have Came back to say thankyou.
Patricia Costanzo
May 8, 2006
Yesterday at our 10am Mass, our Parish of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Bellmawr, NJ, one of Sr. Paul's last assignments and most honored and cherished member of our Parish family, we dedicated our annual May crowning to her memory. To see the outpouring and overflow of congregational participation in prayer and song, I know that her Spirit was alive in the rays of sun that shone through the windows on our Blessed Mother statue...it was almost as if the statue was Sister's presence and the smile, one as I remember that greeted each person she touched.
Harriet Hasselbach-Foster
February 27, 2006
Tears appeared in my eyes when I read this email from one of my oldest and best friends Allison Manker-Hunt. When I think of Sister Paul, the memories of my 8th grade experiences (1980-1981) at Epiphany Elementary in Miami, Florida was a time of great joy! Sister Paul, Sister Francis, Monisor, Father Smith, the guys, Kay, Allison, Vivian, and the list goes on and on. I recall our 8th grade retreat, mass every week and all holy days of obligation and graduation to high school. Once we moved on, Sister Paul was always there for her students. Allison would tell me how she would write letters, talk on the phone and email Sister Paul all the time. When Vivian Sabates passed away, Sister Paul was there not only for spiritual guidance but as a loving friend. Sister Paul is now in the Glory of our loving Father. Sister Paul Mercedes will be deeply missed in the Order of the IHM, with her family, friends and students. The poem "A Thousand Years From Now" that is used by so many teachers is ideal to remember Sister Paul. She touched the lives of so many over the years. I can only hope that with my teaching experieces I could even come slightly close to the impact that she has had over the years to so many indvidsuals.
God please continue to bless Sister Paul's family and friends.
Sister Paul - We will miss you and Never Forget you!
With all our love and misses.
jaime alper
February 20, 2006
SR. PAUL HAD SUCH AN IMPACT ON MY LIFE AND I NEVER HAD A CHANCE TO THANK HER. SHE WAS KIND AND GIVING AND HELPED ME IN SO MANY WAYS. SHE WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART. I WILL NEVER FORGET HER. SHE WASNT JUST A GREAT TEACHER SHE WAS A GREAT FRIEND.
Deborah Grant
February 3, 2006
I remember Sr.Paul Mercedes as a fun-loving, understanding nun, who always had a kind word for all the students when she taught at Transfiguration in Southwest Philadelphia in the 1960's-1970. When we jumped rope, double-dutch or single, Sr. Paul would jump right along with us. Sr. Paul made any subject interesting. She was genuine, unique. I will always remember her warm smile and caring eyes. I felt very disheartened and disturbed by her tragic death. Unbelievable! Such a kind and gentle person, an angel she was here on earth, to be taken away in such a horrific manner. She is truly an angel in heaven now and my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her family.
Mike Calhoun
February 3, 2006
Well that's really a awful way to go out but she led a great life, helped a lot of people, caused an incredible amount of happiness, and educated generations of kids so that they could grow up to live great lives. If I could positively affect 1/1000th of the amount of people that she has by the time my life is over, I'd be a very happy man.
As for memories...hmm. Her yelling at me in the middle of class (btw, it was almost always Eric Snyder's fault). Her often used "You got trouble right here in River City" quote. The Zimmerman/Mercedes tag team like classroom exchanges.
Rest up Sister Paul and don't decline God's offer to fluff up your pillows of cloud...we all know you deserve it.
Christi Jimenez Hilliard
January 25, 2006
Sister Paul was one of my teachers at Transfiguration in 1970, I was in the 8th grade. I always remember her as a very good teacher, and someone who could relate to all children. When I think of teachers I remembered Sister Paul Mercedes, her smile and her great teaching methods. I feel blessed to have met Sister Paul.
Nicole
January 22, 2006
I was very sad to hear the news about Sister Paul. She was my 8th grade teacher. She was a wonderful women. Her family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless
January 20, 2006
god bless sister paul. our family will keep her in our prayers.
TOM TOMASEK
January 20, 2006
I never knew the good sister. I only learned of her untimely death while surfing the web. I wish I could have thanked her for her sevice to the body of Christ. I was taught by nuns from K through 12. They instilled in me and thousands of others the love of leaning. They always put their students ahead of even themselves. Our country is a better place because of their efforts. It is sad to know theirs is a dying breed.
Georgeanne (Schmitt) DeFrancesco
January 19, 2006
Merce was always a wonderful, kind person. Everyone who knew her loved her. I knew her as a fellow classmate. (St Hubert's Class of 1962) My prayers and sympathy go out to her family, friends and members of her IHM family.
January 19, 2006
Sr Paul was truly an example of someone living the gospel as are all the women in the IHM community. She is now with Jesus. My thoughts and prayers are with the extraordinary women of the IHM community. I am grateful to have known so many of these women who helped me become the person I am today. I am saddened that communities like theirs are diminishing and future generations may not see their shining examples.
Thank you and God Bless You.
Jones family
January 19, 2006
We live in an anxious world where everyone is going somewhere to get nowhere. That would be perfectly ok if it did not affect others like Mercedes. It took her life and what a tradgedy. I am so sorry to have heard about this tragedy. My sincere condolences go out to your Mercedes family. You will be in my prayers. May God bless you all to keep your hearts from being to weighed down, until he raises Mercedes back to life right here on earth. John 5:28,29
Linda Paolini ( Dr. Brahen D.D.S.)
January 18, 2006
My heart will always break when I think of the last 4 years with losing some great people that had touch my life to make me a better person , Nadine ,Alan, Sister Paul,, I will always miss her kind words of encouragement and beautiful smile, I have never met a person with the patience and the heart of gold. She was needed in heaven and she will be an angel that will watch over all of us, My deepest sympathy & regrets to Merz,Andy, Guy, Joe and Family
You are all in our thoughts & prayers.
Lisa Vigliarolo-Pitts
January 18, 2006
Dear IHM Community:
Your community is in my prayers as you mourn the lose of Sister Paul. Although I did not her I knew many of the IHM sister while teaching in Collingdale and Manoa, PA. Please know you are all in my thoughts!
Susan Lavin
January 17, 2006
Gone From My Sight
I am standing upon the seashore. A ship spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength. I stand and watch her until, at length, she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.
Then someone at my side says:
"There she is gone!"
"Gone where?"
Gone from my sight. That is all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and she is just as able to bear her load of living freight to her destined port.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her. And just at the moment when someone at my side says, "There, she is gone!" There are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout,
"Here she comes!"
And that is what we call dying.
Rest in peace dear Sweet Sister Paul......Susan Lavin
Helene Schmidt
January 17, 2006
Sister was needed to teach cherubs in Heaven, no doubt.
May God and the other Religious give her a most beautiful welcome!
She truly was a wonderful person.
Sister Kathleen Touey
January 17, 2006
Sister Paul's life reflected the glory of God. I had the privilege of ministering with sister when I was beginning my teaching career. These past two years I would see sister as she was coming to Holy Mass each morning. She truly knew of God's love and shared His love with all those she encountered. It was evident that she was a faithful and loving witness of the Lord. Her life calls each of us to simply be the person God created us to be and to live life with a deeper knowledge of God's great love for us. Sister Paul, may you rest in God's love and peace.
January 17, 2006
WHO SAYS ANGELS DON'T WALK AMONG US.
MAY SISTER REST IN HEAVENLY PEACE.
MAY HER FAMILY FIND COMFORT IN THE BEAUTIFUL MESSAGES LEFT IN HER HONOR. SHE MUST HAVE BEEN A SPECIAL PERSON. IT IS AMAZING TO SEE HOW MANY SHE TOUCHED IN ALL WALKS OF LIFE. GOD BLESS.
Andrew Goff
January 17, 2006
My prayers are certainly with the Perreca family and the entire IHM community whom I have come to love and respect. Know that you are not alone at this difficult time and that many, many folks are thinking of you and praying for you. Look to the hills from whence cometh your help....your help cometh from the Lord. May God comfort you and keep you in His loving care.
Rev. Andrew Goff (Baton Rouge, LA)
Stefan Feaster
January 17, 2006
Sr. Paul was my sixth grade teacher in 1968 at Transfiguration of our Lord Elementary School. I could not believe how tragically she had died. She was one of the people in my life who has left a lasting impression. I was probably in one of the first groups she taught. She also taught my sisters. Often, we would speak of her and how she genuinely cared for her students. She was one of the sisters of IHM who have influenced the current path I have taken in life. May God bless her family.
Susan Dougherty
January 16, 2006
I felt I knew Sister Paul personally. I cried for her, but I know she is in a better place. She is an angel looking down. The lord is just, and he will watch over her now. sincerely, Susan Dougherty
Anne Morehead
January 16, 2006
Reading the entries in Sister Paul's guest book made me sad that I really never knew such a wonderful person. My sympathy to the IHM Community and her dear parents. How tragic for them to lose such a loving caring daughter. My prayers are with them. I am sure Sister was welcomed with open arms into her heavenly home. May she rest in peace.
Laura Brown
January 16, 2006
Sister Paul was my 8th grade CCD teacher. She was a great teacher with a great heart. She will be missed!
Sue Z
January 16, 2006
I met Sister Paul from my Aunt - Sister Regina Marion. They were friends from early days in St. Gabriel. She was a wonderful person who was a great friend to us when my grandmother died. She had a great love of life. I am saddened about her death. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who was lucky enough to have met her as well as her family and extended IHM family.
Amanda (Sullivan) Rama
January 16, 2006
Words cannot express how deeply saddened I am by the death Sr. Paul Mercedes. I had Sr. Paul for 8th Grade (91) at BVM school in Darby, PA. She was simply a wonderful teacher who left a lasting impression on my life and will never be forgotten! My thoughts and prayers are with her family at this difficult time.
SMA
January 16, 2006
I was blessed to know Sister Paul Mercedes the last several years; My heart goes out to her family and closest friends. Thank God LOVE never dies - we are assured then that she is in heaven.
As I mourn her loss, memories of her and her love make me want to be a better person.
Mary Zinni
January 16, 2006
St Martin lose a valueable teacher
who truely was a teacher who loved
life and was dedicated to her God and profession. God has
rewarded her for she has given so
much love to her fellow man. My
condolences to the family. I'm
a neighbor from Rosalie St.
kendall ballinghoff
January 15, 2006
Sister Paul will always be in my heart as one of the most caring individuals I have ever met. Sisiter Paul was one of the most positive influences in my life and without her wisdom and guidance I would never be where I am today. I owe my success to Sister Paul for being a great teacher as well as mentor. To all her survivng family memebers I would like to express my sympathy. Sisiter Paul will always be in my heart and I know I have an angel looking over me for sure.
January 15, 2006
How blessed all the people in this guest book are for having known Sister Paul!!! She has had many assignments throughout her life and her last one was assigned to heaven.
It is out loss, but heaven's gain. May no one ever forget the special way Sister has touched out each and every one of us in one way or another. My friend will be in my heart always.
wendy
January 15, 2006
I did not know Sr. Paul, but I have a sister in the IHM Community. My thoughts and prayers are with Sr. Paul's family and the IHM Community. The tragic and untimely death of Sr. Paul will leave a gigantic hole in many lives, but the people whose lives she touched will always have the wonderful memories of knowing her. Anger is what I felt Monday morning when I heard the news - then I called my sister. I can imagine what Sr. Paul's family is going through, because I would be just as devastated if it were my sister that had been killed. We are taught that our God is a loving God - then we all ask why did he let this wonderful person leave us so soon. I am quite sure that Sr. Paul is wearing her wings and praying for all of us. I can only wish I had known the person who has so lovingly been remembered in all of the entries posted in this remberance book.
Rob Kreszswick ('91)
January 15, 2006
There are very few people that you meet in the course of a lifetime who leave lasting impression...Sr Paul was one of them. I am grateful to have been taught and guided by her. There is a little less trouble in river city tonight...
MARYANNE PIOVANE
January 15, 2006
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY. I HAVE KNOWN SISTER'S MOTHER, MERCEDES GUBICZA,FROM A DOCTOR'S OFFICE IN WHICH I WAS ONE OF THE NURSES. SHE ALWAYS SPOKE SO PROUDLY AND LOVINGLY OF HER DAUGHTER IN RELIGION. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL.
terri ruffin msw,lsw
January 14, 2006
sister paul was a very special woman. she was my teacher at st. gabriel's when i was in the 7th grade.(1973-74) despite my physical limitations, sr. paul taught me that i could be anything that i wanted to be. she taught me the true meaning of respect for others and self respect. she treated me like a celebrity and a dignitary. sr paul also got on my case when i needed it. she showed me that god truly loves everyone and that love transends all including racial barriers. thanks to sr. paul's love and encouragement, i went on to live a very productive life. i attribute my attending immaculata university to obtain my undergraduate degree to her credit. each time i acheive another accomplishment, i think of sr. paul. whenever i face a new challenge, i remember her words of encouragement. although my heart is heavy, i am glad i had the distinct pleasure of meeting sr. paul and the opportunity for my path to cross with hers. i will remember sr. paul's love, compassion, sense of humor, energetic spirit, no non sense attitude and love of god forever. i will truly miss her and my condolences to her family.
Regina Leidy
January 14, 2006
One of the most genuine, kind, and truly spiritual women I've known. Rest with your God.
Sister Maria Carmen Quiroz
January 14, 2006
Mertz, you are now part of God's adoring angels. You deserve it. My heart goes out to your parents. I know you will give them the comfort and peace they need. SMC
Nina Curcio
January 14, 2006
One of my first memories of Sr. Paul was the year they auctioned off an autographed hockey stick at Annunciation's carnival. A man told Sr. Paul he would take a few chances on the stick if she would do the macarena. Let's just say that stick brought in a lot of money that night.
I always felt comfortable talking with Sr. Paul, she was so down-to-earth. She is the only person I ever heard refer to Sr. Magdalena as "Mags".
Sr. Paul Mercedes was truely a gift from God. I pray everyone will follow her example of kindness, love and faith.
Joyce Wilson
January 13, 2006
I met Sister Paul at Annunciation School when my daughter Joy was a student there. Sr.Paul was the most kindest and fun loving individual I had the pleasure of knowing. Aside from her tremendous faith, she had this quality to befriend you and entertain you almost immediately. Sr. Paul was also there to comfort my family and I in 1998 when we endured a personal tragedy. I also had the pleasure of attending several 8th grade trips with Sr. Paul and it was a wonderful and amusing experience. I will remember Sr.Paul with love & admiration. Sister, rest in peace. I know you are truely an angel now, you have your wings!
Lenny Bandoch
January 13, 2006
Sister Paul was our Friend! She was a Friend to everyone she met, She always saw the good in everyone. She was part of a very special group of IHM Sisters that we at Annunciation were fortunate enough to have stationed at our school. While they educated the minds of the Children, they also shared their Love & Joy with the Adults. Sister Paul always greeted you with her warm smile & remembered the thousands of names. God has Blessed us all for having known her. If you wish to see that Blessing just ask any of her friends to tell you a little about her, then pull up a chair, get comfortable & be ready to Smile!
Annunciation BVM Church will Celebrate a Memorial Mass next Wednesday January 18th at 7PM For More information, Call 856-931-6307
We were fortunate enough to have many of our IHM Sisters with us this past Saturday Night for our former Pastors Retirement Mass & Dinner & Yes Sister Paul was there & she was so Happy to be with her Jersey Friends again & after she got caught up on all of our families& shared her own stories, it was off to the dance floor for the Electric Slide. If there is one thing that you must know abour Sister, it is that She Loved Life & She Loved You!
God Bless You Sister for everything you did for all of us! Our Hearts are heavy, but we are better for having known you!!!
Deborah Kralle
January 13, 2006
We are so saddened to hear of the
loss of Sr. Paul. I first met Sr. Paul at Annunciation Parish Sr Paul
had such a warm & caring way about her. We are so privledged to have met such a wonderful & loving person. My prayers are with Sr. Pauls family and friends. Thank you for inspiring our daughter to live her catholic faith. Stefanie went on to be a Eucharistic Minister & Lecturer @ Neumann College. You are truly our Angel. We love & Miss You!
Sincerely;
Debbie, George, Stefanie & Joseph Kralle
Susan Lavin
January 13, 2006
My deepest sympathies to Sister Paul's religious family, and also her own family. This is such a loss and tragedy. I had the honor of knowing Sister Paul when she was in Annunciation, meeting through mutual friends, and then we were happy to hear she was coming to our school, St. Martins. My daughter, a junior in St. Huberts, had Sister as a teacher. They had many nice conversations about both being "Bambis" from St. Huberts. She always took the time to go over something if you didnt get it the first time. My other children got to know her, because once she has a student, she just takes on the whole family as a friend. There wasnt one time that I had seen her, that she didnt ask how "her" Courtney was. There just wasnt a kinder person. Her parents must be so proud to have had such a loving, kind and generous daughter. We just seen her last week at tutoring, and she told my 9 year old not to use money to count, to use candy...and eat the answers. It was so her, to be funny and kind. My daughter will never forget dancing with her to Barry Manilow, and Sugar Sugar. She was quite impressed my kids even knew who Barry was! Just another thing we had in common. When my Dad passed away last year, she called me and was sooo sweet and kind, offered anything and everything, to ease our pain. She will be so sorely missed........and she will always be loved.....and always in our hearts. rest in Peace, dear Sweet friend.....we will miss you forever. Susan, Tom, Courtney, Colleen, Shannon and Patrick Lavin
Daxx Hamilton
January 13, 2006
Sister Paul was my 8th grade teacher at Blessed Virgin Mary in 93-94. She was a true inspiration to all that she touched through her work for the Church. I thank Sister Paul for giving me strength to continue to work hard and always try my best, I thank all of my teachers for that. We had an angel walking on earth and now the evening sky will be brighter because she is walking with God...
God Bless You, Sister Paul you will be missed but we celebrate all the lives you have changed for the better. My best to the family.
Mary Ellen Higgins, IHM
January 13, 2006
Some forty three years ago I entered religious life with Sister Paul Mercedes. She was always the same; kind, calm, and very sweet. Her gentle spirit will stay among us all in many new ways. Please know that I pray for her natural family as well as her religious family during this time of deep loss. Merce, may you know fully the peace, love and kindness of our God.
Debbie Gudonis
January 13, 2006
I met Sister Mercedes last year, the night my sister in law, Mindy, died. Sister Mercedes was there for all of us and her and I talked several times in the days leading up to Mindy's funeral. Sister Mercedes helped me plan the program for the funeral and of course she was there to console all of us. She gave my niece, Amanda, a pair of rosaries that she keeps close to her at all times, she pulled them out yesterday to show me. People always say kind things after someone dies but Sister Mercedes was a truly remarkable, kind, loving woman, who was extremely uplifting and helped me feel my own spirituality at a very dark time for my family. My thoughts, love and prayers go out to her parents, her brothers, the entire Perecca family, the Sisters of IHM and all of the people she lovingly touched.
I am very saddened by this but I know, she now has her wings.
Debbie Garvey Gudonis
Helen Johnston
January 13, 2006
January 13, 2006
I met Sister Paul through my sister, Sister Honora Marie. Sr. Paul always made time to stop what she was doing so that she could do for others. She always put others first! Her untimely, brutal death has left us all deeply saddened! These testimonies speak volumes about her as a humble person. She would be so embarrassed at the attention that her passing has created.
Helen Johnston
January 13, 2006
January 13, 2006
I met Sister Paul through my sister, Sister Honora Marie. Sr. Paul always made time to stop what she was doing so that she could do for others. She always put others first! Her untimely, brutal death has left us all deeply saddened!
Margaret Andrelczyk
January 13, 2006
I first met Sister Paul through my sister Betsy (Miss Smith) when they taught together at BVM in Darby. Throughout my sister's illness, and death, and after, thoughout the grieving process that my family endured, Sr. Paul remained a dear and compassionate friend.
I just wanted to tell her family how sorry I was for their loss. Please know that I am one among many who will be praying for you at this difficult time.
Thank you Sister Paul Mercedes for gracing this world with your presence. You truly were a blessing.
kathleen zane
January 13, 2006
I met S.Paul Mercedes through my sister, S.Honora. She was always happy to stop and say hello, no matter how busy she was. She was a very special woman and her death has left our world a poorer place.
Jennifer Williams
January 13, 2006
Sister Paul was my 8th grade CCD teacher. I made my Confirmation with her. She was so sweet and loving. She really cared about what she did and had a passion for it. She will truly be missed. May God be with her family at this difficult time.
Denice Feenane-Pozo
January 13, 2006
I learned of Sister's tragic accident just yesterday while I was in my 4 year old son's room mother meeting at Epiphany School. Instantly I was saddened as Sister Paul had been my 8th grade teacher at Epiphany School in 1983. I remember her with love, and hope she and her family find peace through God's love. May God bless you Sister and thank you.
Jean Murphy
January 13, 2006
I met Sister Paul through my sister Betsy (Miss Smith) who taught with her at BVM in Darby. I will always remember her for the faithful friend she was to my sister. All through Betsy's illness Sister Paul visited and constantly wrote cards and letters of encouragement. When Betsy passed away last year Sister Paul was once again the faithful friend. She consoled us with her memories of Betsy and prayed with us easing our loss. In September we met and again shared memories and Sister Paul comforted me. I know Sister Paul and Betsy are in heaven enjoying each other's company. I want to express my sincere condolences to Sister Paul's family and tell them that both my sister and I were blessed by her friendship.
Ann Rotolante
January 12, 2006
I just got the news and I can hardly type for the tears. One only has to look at all the entries on this page to see how many lives Sister Paul touched in her short time on this planet. I had Sister Paul for 8th grade at Epiphany in Miami in 1979-1980. I remember her laughter and her energy more than anything else. She was one of of the most genuine people I have ever known. My deepest sympathy goes out to her friends and family.
Sheila Keller
January 12, 2006
I had Sister Paul for 7th and 8th grade at Annunciation Regional School and she was one of the most influential people I've met in my life. It's because of her guidance that I decided to pursue a career in Education. She made learning interesting and enjoyable for her students and my classmates and I have numerous memories of her that we have spoken of in the past few days. I know that she is in a better place, but all of us at Annunciation Parish will miss her dearly.
Desiree (wolfe) Klein
January 12, 2006
Sister Paul was my favorite teacher at Annunciation. I'll always remember her breaking into school in the middle of teaching a lesson. She was a wonderful person, teacher and friend, and she will always be in my heart.
Stacey Gladeck-Walthes
January 12, 2006
What words could express how I felt about Sister Paul! She was my 7th and 8th Grade Teacher at Bvm in 1993 & 1994 and a true inspiration to me... She chanded my life so much and was always there when I needed someone to talk to or some help with my schoolwork! Sister Paul taught me many things about life, love and happiness and I can only hope to be half the person she was! It's Hard to believe that something so bad could happen to such a wonderfull, loving and compassionate person! I guess God needed back his Angel! You shall live forever in my Heart, and I will never forget you... May we meet again in Heaven! My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of her friends and family
Stacy
January 12, 2006
You were my favorite teacher at Annunciation. So sorry this happened to you. I know we will meet again in heaven one day.
Frankie DeGrand
January 12, 2006
I had Sister Paul for my 8th grade teacher at BVM in Draby part of the (Class of 91).I will always rember who Buster Keaton was and rember how she was a part of my life.Prayers go to Sisters family, and friends of a woman who has touched all of our lives.RIP Sister we will see you in heaven one day
Michelle Williams
January 12, 2006
Sister Paul was a wonderful woman and a great teacher. She was always full of joy and happiness and loved to dance. I remember going to church and seeing her there bright and early singing away with the choir. My prayers go out to her family and friends.
Betty Ann Fenn
January 12, 2006
I would like to offer my deepest sympathy to Sister Paul's religious family, her immediate family, everyone at BVM Parish and School, and all her relative and friends, especially Nicky Perreca and her family. My twin daughters are best friends with Sister Paul's niece, Nicky and they told me about Sister Paul. My heart went out to Nicky and her family. When I saw the Daily Times Newspaper and saw the picture of Sister Paul Mercedes Perreca I was shocked. Here, I worked with Sister Paul at BVM Parish years ago. I was a librarian and Sister Paul taught at BVM. I will never forget how special she made me feel and how she made me laugh when she came into the library at BVM. I know that Sister Paul is with God now and she will watch over her family and friends. She is an angel now in heaven with God. May Sister Paul rest in peace. You will always be remembered for your kindness. May God bless everyone and take care of all of you at this sad time.
With deepest sympathy,
Betty Ann, Jim, Mike, Chrissy & Melanie Fenn
Brittany Labolito
January 12, 2006
Sister Paul was my 8th grade homeroom teacher in 2001 - 2002. She was an extremly loving person who genuinly cared about everyone around her. She touched the lives of all those who knew her in a special way. She will be extremely missed by everyone and I feel for all those who did not get a chance to know this amazing person.
Gail Daddazio
January 12, 2006
I met Sr.Paul Mercedes at Camilla Hall, where I am a nurse. I remember talking to Sister when she helped there during the summer. When I addressed her as "Sr. Mer CE des," she replied,"The name is 'MER ce des.' I am not a car!" She was a loving, caring person, and will be truly missed!
Dan Buckley
January 12, 2006
My sympathies go out to Sister Paul Mercedes and her family. I attended St. Christopher's school with Sister and will always remember her as being a wonderful person.
January 12, 2006
I will always remember how funny Sister Paul was. She was a wonderful teacher and a great human being. Her students loved her and they are better people for having known her. She had this math hat that was awesome. Rest in peace sister. We know your with Jesus.
jud dooley
January 12, 2006
Sister I never know you but I know for a fact that you living with the Saints from all of the good work you did for the Blessed Mother and Jesus on earth
D J Billy Dunphy
January 12, 2006
To Sister Paul's immediate & religious families, my heartfelt deepest sympathies are with you at this time of great, great loss. Sister was a tremendous person. I had her in the 7th grade at St. Gabriel's school in grays ferry where she was in charge of the vocal group and in fact in charge of the Cantors at the Sunday Masses where I along with some other boys sang on the altar. She was great, and now she will be great again in heaven with God our father. God Bless you Sister Paul Mercedes, and thank you for teaching me to sing.
Amy (Horan) Nichols
January 12, 2006
It's so very sad that something so tragic should happen to a wonderful person like Sister Paul. She has always stood out in my mind as one of the greatest teachers that I have ever had. Very often over the years I have found myself repeating her quotes, and just last Saturday I saw Tyne Daly on tv singing "Trouble right here in River City" and I couldn't help but laugh thinking about Sister Paul. She was always so happy and funny. On a trip to Camilla Hall in 1991, my fellow classmate and I got to ride with sister Paul and another sister, and they were so much fun we thought for sure that we should consider being nuns when we grew up! She will surely be missed, and always remembered fondly.
Emilie Walton
January 12, 2006
I met Sr. Paul Mercedes when I was working at Camilla Hall Nursing Home as a Nurse's Aide. Sr. Paul as many of the Sister's would,came in many times during the year and spent time during the summer taking care of the sick and infirmed Sister's at Camilla Hall. What a joy to have had her as a partner while doing a day's work. Sr. Paul was such a caring person and I consider myself priveleged to have known and worked with her. Her Family and her Family of I.H.M. Sister's are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kelly
January 12, 2006
I remember Sister Paul from Annunciation. She was such a sweet person. I can't believe she is gone. The day it happened, I saw my old Teachers at Annunciation in Bellmawr. They were directing traffic for school dismissal. My heart broke for them. They all looked so sad. It really hit home for me then. I believe that Sister Paul Mercy is up in heaven leading the precession through the gates and singing when the saints go marching in.
Deborah Bennett
January 12, 2006
I didn't know Sister personally,. but my prayers are with her family right now,, We lost a beautiful person.. God Bless you . and bless your family and keep them strong..
Andrea Burdelle-Mathias
January 12, 2006
Sister Paul was my 7th and 8th Grade teacher back in 1970 & 1971 at Transfiguration School in West Phila. I can't begin to explain the influence that she had on me not only as a teacher but also as a role model. She was a strong willed and assertive woman who sought to instill those values in me and my classmates and I know that we are all the better for it. My sincere sympathy to her family and friends. I know that God has a special place for her to help continue her work for him.
Helen Graci
January 12, 2006
What a well deserved tribute to my friend, Sr. Paul Mercedes. Thank you to all of the people who have written remembrances of her.
I was always inspired by her love, care and kindness to others. I am sure that she would like us to continue on following her favorite Bible quote from Micah 6 verse 8
"This is what Yahweh asks of you, only this...to act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God.
Sister Maria Francina Travis
January 12, 2006
To the family of Sister Paul, My heart felt prayers go with you at this time. Sister use to visit SS.Simon and Jude often in West Chester. She is with the Lord. Prayers, Sister Maria Francina IHM
Dolores Brown
January 12, 2006
I am greatly saddened by the passing of my friend Sr. Paul. I was her room mother and she taught five of my children when she was at Epiphany in Miami. We have kept in touch and we will all miss her. She also loved "You are my sunshine, my only sunshine" and she was.
Janet Brown
January 12, 2006
As an 8th grade English teacher, I have always regarded Sr. Paul as my mentor and role model. She was my 8th grade English teacher in 1978 at Epiphany in Miami. I remember the fun times in 8th grade especially our big trip to Disney at the end of the year. I have been so blessed to be able to keep in touch with her through the years. No words can explain my feelings of loss except an excerpt from a song I remember as a favorite of hers in 1978: Sr. Paul, "I Can't Smile Without You, can't laugh, can't sing; I'm finding it hard to do anything..."
I love you and thank you for all your love and support through the years.
James Mulholland
January 11, 2006
I am deeply saddened hearing of the loss of such a wonderful person.I was lucky to have Sister Paul as a teacher when I attended St.Gabriels Elementary School.My prayers go out to her family.She is missed deeply by the class of '76 and all those who were just as lucky to have her as a teacher.
Brittany Alcavage
January 11, 2006
I never had Sister Paul as a teacher but I sure knew her around school. I attended Annunciation Regional School in Bellmawr, NJ (graduated in 2003) and I remember her as a happy, happy person, always smiling and enjoying her life. My brother had her as a teacher. I remember talking about "the old days at ARS" and he ALWAYS brought up Sister Paul and how great of a teacher she was. I know I didn't know her well but the news of her death still saddened me. She's in a better place, somewhere she worked all her life to get to. Sister Paul, rest peacefully. My condolences to sister's family and friends.
Danielle Hall
January 11, 2006
Unfortunately, I didnt have Sister Paul because she left Annunciation before I was old enough but I remember her in 6th grade. She was the best singer and always had a ball leading us in songs. She made the school Christmas Pagent so much better. She will be missed and never forgotten. Rest In Peace
Mary Lou Golden
January 11, 2006
Sr. Paul was all about kids - helping them wih their math and their self-esteem. She was a lovely woman, a solid educator, and faith-based person who will be sorely missed.
Allison Manker- Hunt
January 11, 2006
Words cannot express the loss I am feeling. Sister Paul was my 8th grade teacher in 81'at Epiphany.She was more than a teacher . She was truley my friend. We continued to keep in touch up untill the week before Christmas this year. I am in total shock. WHY???? She has had such a huge impact on my life. I thank her for helping me become the person I am today.I am forever blessed to have had the chance to know her. She is a saint in my eyes. Thank you Sister for letting me call you friend.I will miss our phone calls.But I know I will still be able to talk with you.
Patty DeGrand\Vinciguerra
January 11, 2006
It was an honor and a privilege to have Sister Paul as my 8th grade teacher at BVM. Never in my life has a teacher touched me more than Sister Paul. Sister Paul had a way about her that made life fun, Sister, was always there when you needed help always offering that extra time after school or just there if you needed to smile, Sister Paul always taught us that there is a bright side to everything in life. The world lost an amazing person, teacher and friend on Monday.
Sister I know that you have found Eternal Happiness, for that I am sad and happy for now you will always be there to look over us. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Elaine Krause
January 11, 2006
You know what I loved about Sister Paul (Merce)? I loved the way she was always sure of herself, but even if she wasn't, she alluded to only confidence. She didn't change her outlook on life in the thirty-eight years I knew her. She was always positive, always funny, always helpful, always loving, always there. I can't begin to express how I hurt for everyone in the family. I pray, everyday, for all of you.
Eileen Labolito
January 11, 2006
I first met Sister Paul when she came to St. Martin's and my daughter Brittany was going to have her first nun, We all have a lot of sister stories from attending chatholic school so of course I share some of mine. I believe I made her some what nervous but after meeting Sister Paul I knew she was going to have some great stories of her own, I also had the experience of being her lunch mother for almost two years and I have been thinking about that time alot the past couple of days,
Sister Paul was someone who could always see the best in everyone especially her 8th graders, She always address them that way and I use to thing thats exactly what they were her 8th graders. She always made time for them and anyone else who needed it, My sister was very sick at that time and she comforted me many days when her situation got worse even though she was dealing with her own worries with her family, What else can I say but I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to be with sister on a day to day bases for that short time. I know right now she is up in heaven teaching the angel a new dance or playing a game of chinese checkers. She will be missed.
Lori
January 11, 2006
I had the great pleasure to meet Sr. Paul when she taught my son at Saint Martin of Tours school.
She was such a sweet woman - very caring and compassionate.
I am stunned and saddened at her sudden, violent passing.
God truly has gained an angel - our loss is Heaven's gain.
May God hold her family and friends in His hand during this most difficult time.
Meghan (Medrow) Phelan
January 11, 2006
I was in Sr. Paul's 8th grade class at BVM in Darby. Sr. Paul was the most loving person I've ever known. She had such a strong impact on my life. I am so thankful that I was able to call her my teacher and my friend. The memories of her will always be in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and all those who love her.
former student from SMT
January 11, 2006
I never had sister paul but my sister did and she was such a great perosn. ALways smiling and always happy to see you. The last thing I remember about her is when she asked me to do something for her and I didn't do it and she didn't get mad she just said ok but it was hard knowing she couldn't trust me anymore. She was a great person and will be missed.
Denise Travers
January 11, 2006
S. Paul was truly special. She often reminded me of Mother Teresa; strong and willing, yet gentle and humble. Her students loved her, as did their parents. S. Paul had a keen sense of humor, and her cheery disposition brightened the dreariest days. It was an honor and a privilege to work with S. Paul, and a great joy to call her my friend. She was a blessing in my life. God bless you, Sister, as He cradles you in His arms.
The Class of 2004
January 11, 2006
I was a part of Sister Paul's last class before her sabbatical. She was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. Whenever a person had some sort of trouble, she was there to guide us. Sister gave our class great laughs and memories we will hold with us for years to come. She was one of the best people on earth, and now, she is one of the best people in Heaven. We are gracious to be the last class Sister Paul taught. We left her at graduation with life lessons and guidance. She will forever be missed.
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