Sister M. Dionysia O’Leary, IHM

Sister M. Dionysia O’Leary, IHM, of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary died on Wednesday, January 25, 1995, at the Marian Community Hospital in Carbondale, PA.

She was born on October 2, 1905 in Altoona, PA, and given the name Mary A. She was the daughter of the late Denis and Catherine Duffy O’Leary. After teaching for several years in the Altoona public schools, she entered the IHM Congregation on February 1, 1933, made first profession of her vows on August 2, 1935, and final profession of her vows on August 2, 1938.

Sister Dionysia served as a professor of art at Marywood College from 1935 to 1982; and also had taught at the Marywood Seminary, both located in Scranton, PA. While at Marywood College, she also served for 15 years as the chairperson of the art department.

Since 1982, Sister Dionysia was a prayer minister at the Marian Convent in Scranton, PA.

Prior to entering the community, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Indiana State Teachers College in 1924. She also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in art education from Marywood College in 1935, and went on to receive a Master of Arts degree in fine arts from Columbia University in 1941. She completed further study at Catholic University and the Parsons School of Design, New York.

Sister Dionysia held memberships in the National and Pennsylvania Art Education Associations, the Everhart Museum, the Craftsmen’s Guild of New York City, and the Catholic Fine Arts Society, where she also served as regional vice-president.

She was preceded in death by two sisters, Kathleen O’Leary and Ann Cecelia O’Leary; and five brothers, Monsignor Joseph, Reverend John, Dr. Thomas, Attorney Patrick E. and Dr. James M.

She is survived by three sisters, Sister M. Brigid O’Leary, IHM of Scranton, PA, Eileen Dumm of Harrisburg, PA, and Rita Spellman of Drexel Hill, PA; nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be Monday, January 30, at 10:00 a.m. with Mass of Christian Burial at the Marian Convent, followed by interment at St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow, PA. Friends may call on Sunday after 2:00 p.m. at the Marian Convent.

Archival Remembrance:

A talented artist herself and able to bring forth talent in others, Sister Dionysia O’Leary is remembered for her pleasant personality. Her love of God and of beauty were reflected in the dedication of her teaching — students from first grade through college. With her inspiration, they developed great appreciation for art. The Congregation was greatly enriched with her presence.