Sister Rita Farrell, OP died on June 13, 2019 in Dominican Convent, Siena Hall, Sparkill, NY. She was 88 years old. Born in Bronx, New York on November 27, 1930, Rita Theresa was the daughter of John and Elizabeth Schweitzer Farrell. She entered the Dominican Congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary in Sparkill on February 2, 1949 and received the name Sister John Elizabeth. She professed her first vows in 1950 and final vows in 1955.
Sister Rita received a BS in Education from Fordham University in 1957 and a MA in Mathematics from Villanova University in 1973. She received her Administration and Supervision certification from Manhattan College in 1978.
Sister Rita ministered in the following schools: St. Edmund, Brooklyn, NY (1950-1952); Cardinal McCloskey Home and School, White Plains, NY (1952-1953); St. Agnes Home and School, Sparkill, NY (1953); St. Ann, Bronx, NY (1953-1958); Our Lady of Grace, Bronx, NY (1958-1967); Holy Trinity HS, Hicksville, NY (1967-1975); St. Brendan, Bronx, NY (1975-1977 as assistant principal and 1977-1982 as principal); Iona Prep, New Rochelle, NY (1982-1989); and Albertus Magnus HS, Bardonia, NY, Business Manager (1989-2012).
Sister Rita Farrell is predeceased by her parents John and Elizabeth Sweitzer Farrell, and siblings Georgia Farrell and Joan Farrell O’Hagan. She is survived by her brothers Raymond (Carole) and John (Gloria) Farrell along with 12 nephews, 2 nieces and their families.
Sister Rita Farrell touched the lives of countless children and adults in her ministry of education as teacher, principal and business manager. She was committed to the mission of the Dominican Sisters for more than 70 years. proclaiming the Word of God through a ministry for justice. May she be welcomed into the fullness of God’s presence—well done good and faithful servant!