Sister Mary Robert Williams

Sister Mary Robert Williams, born Margaret Catherine Williams on October 24, 1932, to Robert Williams of Glen Cove, Long Island, New York, and Bernadette Nixon of Triangle, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on December 26. 2024. A beloved sister, educator, and spiritual leader, Sister Mary Robert dedicated her life to serving others, embodying the values of compassion and kindness throughout her many years of ministry.

Growing up in Charlotte, North Carolina, Sister Mary Robert attended Saint Patrick's School, previously known as O'Donoghue School, where she nurtured her passion for education. On August 5, 1950, she entered the Sisters of Mercy and began a remarkable career that would span decades. Her commitment to teaching and leadership saw her serve as a supervisor at Nazareth Orphanage, principal at St. Mary's School in Wilmington, and later as principal at Our Lady of Assumption School in Charlotte. During this time, she also dedicated herself to training the next generation of Sisters as a novice director for the Sisters of Mercy.

After retiring from her formal education career, Sister Mary Robert continued to share her gifts at Sacred Heart Parish in Salisbury, North Carolina, where she became a cherished Pastoral Associate and patient advisor, providing support and guidance to those in need.

Upon returning to Belmont, Sister dedicated herself to the community, volunteering at Holy Angels and House of Mercy, where she uplifted and visited children and young women, offering prayer and encouragement to those facing challenges.

Known for her joyful spirit, gentleness, and unwavering love for others, Sister Mary Robert was a talented storyteller who created lasting connections with everyone she encountered. Her presence brought peace and light to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Sister Mary Robert Williams will be profoundly missed by her family, the Sisters of Mercy, friends, and the countless lives she touched throughout her ministry.

A viewing will be held on January 3, 2025, from 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Convent, Cardinal Gibbons Chapel, 500 Sacred Heart Circle Belmont, NC 28012, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. Immediately after the Mass the Sisters will provide lunch and a graveside service will take place at 1:30 PM at Belmont Abbey.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sister Mary Robert's memory may be made to the Sisters of Mercy (101 Mercy Drive, Belmont, NC 28012) or a charity of your choice, reflecting her lifelong commitment to service and love for others.

Those planning to stay for lunch should email ljordan@sistersofmercy.org.

The mass will be streamed at https://www.facebook.com/groups/871835437805371/

McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont is serving the Sisters of Mercy and the Williams family. Condolence messages may be sent online at mcleanfuneral.com.