Sr. Patricia Jean Healy, OSF
February 11, 2011
Born in Somerset, Kentucky, Sr. Patricia Jean Healy was the youngest of three children of Charles and Alice Healy. At the age of 21, she entered the convent along with a friend who had read about the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in the vocation magazine, “Sacred Heart Messenger.”
An educator for 26 years, Sister Patricia Jean loved teaching her primary students in grades 1 to 3. She taught in St. Louis; Chama and Gallup, New Mexico; Trinidad, Colorado; Monroe, Louisiana and Chicago Heights, Illinois. She always appreciated the Sisters who helped her. Sister Patricia Jean was happy to stay connected with young children while ministering in ancillary services at Villa St. Joseph Child Care Center from 1980 to 1997.
In her retirement, Sister Patricia Jean participated in every activity and outing offered at Mary, Queen and Mother. She loved going out to eat and playing bingo. Her favorite television programs were Animal Planet and the Weather Channel. For a number of years, Sister enjoyed reading. After her eyesight failed, she listened to books on tape which she got from the library.
Known for her humor and humbleness, Sister Patricia Jean (affectionately called Sister PJ) is remembered fondly by her Sisters who say, “She was a friendly Sister who loved Jesus.” “She gave of her talents in a gentle way.” Others remember Sister PJ as a good listener and always considerate of those who were ill.