Obituary of Sr. Edward Catherine Barrett

Theresa entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on September 1, 1949; was received into the Congregation on August 15, 1950; and professed her final vows on August 16, 1957. As an Allegany Franciscan Sister for 73 years, she lived joyfully her call to reflect God’s love and mercy to all with whom she came in contact. Sister attended Holy Family Elementary School and Mercy Academy both in Buffalo, NY graduating in 1949. She attended St. Elizabeth Teachers College, Allegany, NY, graduating from St. Bonaventure University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. Sr. Edward Catherine taught in Congregational Schools in New Jersey, New York, Florida and Texas. In 1966, she volunteered for missionary work in Bolivia. Upon returning to the United States, she attended Tomlinson Vocational School in St. Petersburg, FL, earning her certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Her first ministry as an LPN was at St. Francis Hospital in Miami FL followed by St. Francis Hospital in Olean, NY. Following several years working in healthcare, Sister was transferred to St. Elizabeth Motherhouse where she was the Director of Housekeeping for the next 7 years. Always being available, she accepted the responsibility to be the interim manager of Sr. Pat’s Home in Olean for a year. Upon return to the Motherhouse, she assumed part-time ministry as Switchboard operator and assistant in the infirmary. Though officially retired in 2006, Sister Edward Catherine was always known for helping others and this continued for the remainder of her life. She is predeceased by her parents, Edward and Catherine Howard Barrett, brothers: Edward (Genevieve), John and Michael (Helen) Barrett; sisters, Mary (Harry) Guyette and Elizabeth (James) O’Connor. She is survived by a sister: Catherine (late Joseph) Kenefick, as well as a loving Aunt to 20 nieces and nephews and over 40 grandnieces and grandnephews. A Wake Service will be held at 4:00PM, Friday, September 16, 2022 in the Chapel of St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, Allegany, New York. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:00AM, Saturday, September 17, 2022 in the Motherhouse Chapel, followed by burial in St. Bonaventure Cemetery Allegany, New York. The funeral arrangements are under the direction of Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc. 646 East State Street, Olean, NY . For condolences and comments, please visit www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com