Sister Ellen Mary Bringenberg RSM

Sister Ellen Mary Bringenberg, RSM, a member of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, died peacefully on Sunday, at The Meadows Skilled Nursing Center, Dallas.

Born in Hazelton, Sister Ellen Mary was the daughter of Rose (McGinley) and John Bringenberg. She entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1953, and professed her perpetual vows in 1959. Sr. Ellen Mary lived her life dedicated to God and service to the people of God through Mercy for 71 years.

A graduate of the University of Scranton, Sister Ellen Mary earned a degree in elementary education. She later continued her studies at College Misericordia (now Misericordia University), where she earned a degree in music. Sister Ellen Mary served as a teacher and principal in the dioceses of Altoona, Scranton, Brooklyn, Rockville Center and Allentown. She was an excellent teacher who particularly enjoyed teaching music. Sister was known for her dry sense of humor and wonderful smile that greeted all.

During her years of ministry, Sister Ellen Mary excelled in educational administration. She served successfully for 14 years as principal of Blessed Sacrament, Bayside, Long Island, N.Y., and she was known by everyone as a calm, compassionate presence. In difficult situations, her serenity and humility were evident and admired.

Sister Ellen Mary was predeceased by her parents, Rose and John; sisters, Lucille Batchelor, Muriel Sacco, Mildred Howard; and brothers, Gerald, Hugh, Joseph and Bernard Bringenberg.

She is survived by her sister, Juleann (Bringenberg) Petrole; loving nieces and nephews; and many friends among the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Associates and throughout the areas where she served.

The Sisters of Mercy wish to thank the wonderful staff at The Meadows Skilled Nursing facility, who generously cared for Sister Ellen Mary and Hospice of the Sacred Heart staff for making her journey Home as comfortable as possible.

The celebration of Sister Ellen Mary's life will be held beginning with visitation from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Thursday, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. in Blessed Sacrament Chapel at Mercy Center, Dallas. Burial will follow immediately after in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Sister Ellen Mary Bringenberg's name may be made to the Sisters of Mercy, PO Box 370, Dallas, PA 18612 or the charity of your choice.