Sister M. Gonzales McGowan, IHM

Sister M. Gonzales McGowan, IHM, of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary died on Saturday, November 23, 1996, at Marian Convent in Scranton, PA. At 103, she had the distinction of being the oldest living member of the IHM Congregation.

She was born on June 8, 1893 in Pittsburgh, PA, and given the name Anna. She was the daughter the daughter of the late John and Catherine (Katie) Loftus McGowan. She entered the IHM Congregation on July 19, 1911, received the religious habit on August 2, 1912, and made temporary profession of her vows on August 3, 1914.

Sister Gonzales served as a principal and teacher at the following schools: Laurel Hill Academy in Susquehanna, PA, from 1914 to 1925; Sacred Heart of Mary Elementary School in Jermyn, PA, from 1937 to 1942; St. Cecilia Elementary School in Exeter, PA, from 1948 to 1954; St. Mary Elementary School in Patton, PA; St. Paul School in Cranston, RI; and St. Raymond School in East Rockaway, NY. She also taught at school located in Pittsburgh, PA, and Manhasset, NY.

From 1971 until the time of her death, Sister Gonzales served as a prayer minister at the Marian Convent.

She received a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Marywood College.

She is survived by cousins, Lucille Rectenwald and Hilda McTigue; and friend, LaVerne Wessel of Pittsburgh, PA.

The funeral will be November 26, 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 Monday after 2:00 p.m. at the Marian Convent.