Sr. M. Bernadette Battaglia, OSF

Sister M. Bernadette Pauline Battaglia, OSF Age 95, on December 28, 2022. Beloved sister of Joseph (Dolores) Battaglia, Santo (Arlene) Battaglia, Vincenzina (the late Richard) Larko; loving aunt of Debbie (Jeff Hillard) Battaglia, Laurie Battaglia, John (Debbie) Battaglia, and Joe (Donna) Battaglia; daughter of the late Joseph Battaglia and Concettina Aiello. Sister Bernadette Battaglia was born in Carnegie, PA. Sister was known as a person who loved life and nurtured a strong dedication to God. In 1955, she entered the Sisters of St. Francis in Millvale. She began her ministry by teaching in the primary grades in the Pittsburgh diocese. Over the years, she earned a Bachelor's and a Masters in Education. Eventually, her ministry took her to Puerto Rico for 19 years and Venezuela for 3 years where she served as both teacher and principal. In 1992, Sister Bernadette received the "Who's Who Among American Teachers" award. She also taught kindergarten at the Mt. Alvernia Day Care and Learning Center from 1995-1997. For almost 15 years, Sister served at St. Peter's School in Beaufort in the Diocese of Charleston, South Carolina. Here she served as teacher, visitor to prisoners and pastoral minister to many in the area. When her ministry at St. Peter's Church ended in 2014, she received a formal letter of gratitude from the bishop of Charleston. The members of St. Peter's Parish described as a person whose faithfulness never ended and generosity never waned. In their hearts, she became an inspiration to all. Over time, her health began to diminish and she returned to Mt. Alvernia. Even in retirement, she would fondly share those memories of her time at St. Peter's. In her declining years, she remained very outgoing and tried to reach out to others as she was able. For over half a century, Sister Bernadette served in various ministries and became endeared to the hearts of many. She once described happiness as loving God, being at peace and being a Franciscan. Viewing will be held on Tuesday, January 3, at St Aidans Parish, St Alexis Church, 10090 Old Perry Highway, Wexford, from 9:30 until the time of Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM. Interment at Mt. Alvernia Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St Francis of the Neumann Communities, 225 Greenfield Parkway, Suite 208, Liverpool, NY 13088. Professional services trusted to D'ALESSANDRO FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, LTD., Lawrenceville. www.dalessandroltd.com.

Sr. M. Bernadette Battaglia, OSF

May 24, 1927 - December 28, 2022