Graciela Drolet

Graciela Drolet passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2024 at home after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Graciela was born Los Angeles, California in 1967, the daughter of Luis and Leonora (Martella) Gieco who predeceased her. In 1971 her family returned to Argentina, where Graciela lived until she moved to the United States in 1996. In addition to her college degree from Argentina, she obtained further degrees from both Cabrini College and Albright College. Graciela was employed as an accountant at Quest Diagnostics for the past 25 years. She is survived by two cousins, Jorge Santiago of Banchero, Argentina and Jorge Castro of Alacante, Spain. She was also predeceased by a younger brother Leonardo who died at birth.

When Graciela moved to Phoenixville she joined St. Ann’s Catholic Church and immediately became deeply involved with the growing Hispanic Community at St. Ann’s. 

During her time at St. Ann’s she was responsible for founding the Alpha and Omega Group, for involving the Hispanic Community in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, for organizing First Communions, First Penances, Confirmations, Weddings and Funerals for members of the Hispanic Community. She also started a Spanish Rosary Group and she brought Holy Communion to homebound parishioners. She began the parish tradition of hosting a Thanksgiving Dinner for members of the church community who would otherwise have been alone at Thanksgiving.

In addition to her deep involvement with the Hispanic Community at St. Ann’s, Graciela took her vows as a Secular Member of the Discalced Carmelite Order, taking as her name Graciela de Jesus Divina Misericordia. She was very involved in the activities of the Order during the past several years. 

Graciela was model of a faithful Christian and servant of our Lord. Through her good works and example she inspired not only the Hispanic Community at St. Ann’s but the entire parish congregation. Although she will be greatly missed by all who knew her, her memory will serve as an inspiration for many. 

A viewing will be held in St. Ann Chapel, 604 S. Main Street, Phoenixville, PA on Friday evening November 8, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and Saturday morning, November 9, 2024 from 9:00 to 10:45 am. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 11:00 am followed by burial in St. Ann Cemetery (305 W. Pothouse Road, Phoenixville, PA)  

In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to Missionary Sisters of Charity, 630 DeKalb Street, Norristown, PA  19401

https://www.churchofsaintann.org/live-stream-1