Teresa M. Coyne

Teresa M. Coyne, 81 MEXICO -- Teresa M. Coyne, 81, of Mexico, beloved sister, aunt and friend, died peacefully Sunday, March 1, 2009, at Fallbrook Woods in Portland. She was born in Portland, the daughter of the late James and Annie Malloy Coyne, attended Cathedral Grammar School, Staples School and was a 1945 graduate of Cathedral High School. Teresa graduated from Boston University with a degree in education. At the age of 18, Teresa entered the Sisters of Mercy and was known as Sister Mary Justina. While a Sister of Mercy, she taught elementary school in Brewer, Dana Point, Calais, St. Elizabeth's Home in Portland, Holy Cross School in South Portland and St. Patrick's school in Portland. Teresa left the Sisters of Mercy in 1970. She then became a first and then third grade teacher in the Peru School district, retiring in 1988. After retiring from teaching, Teresa became a housekeeper for the diocese of Portland. Briefly, she was a cook and housekeeper at the Chancery. She also served as a housekeeper and parish administrative assistant in the Waterville area Catholic churches. Teresa's life was centered on her strong Catholic faith. She devoted her life to the service of others. Although illness ravaged both her mind and body, Teresa M. Coyne she never lost her incredible sense of humor. She traveled throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. She especially loved the Maine coast. Teresa was predeceased by her parents; her brothers Joseph and James Coyne, and her sisters, Mary Dimillo, Anna Doria, Catherine Coyne and Frances Coyne. Survivors include her sisters, Barbara Piacentini of Portland and Dorothy Schidzig of Gray; and her lifelong best friend, Alice Conners of Mexico. Several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends also survive her. A memorial Mass will be celebrated at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 307 Congress St., Portland, on Saturday, March 7, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, South Portland, in the spring. Arrangements are by the Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State St., Portland. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ctcrawford.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Catherine McAuley High School 631 Stevens Ave. Portland, Maine 04103