Berry, Sister Mary Albert D.C.

MENANDS –Mary Albert Berry, D.C., Daughter of Charity, died at St. Louise Hose, Menands on May 4, 2023, surrounded by her Sisters in Community, nursing staff and friends. Sister Mary Albert was born in Philadelphia, PA on January 9, 1923. Her parents, Mary Ann and Patrick John Berry enjoyed their three sons and two daughters. Sister entered the Daughters of Charity in 1941 and enjoyed teaching for 45 years. Her bachelor’s degree in English from St.JosephCollege, Emmitsburg, MD and later her master’s degree in English from University of Detroit, MI prepared her to teach in schools in Maryland, Washington, DC, Wilmington, DE and Cardinal McCloskey High School, Albany. At McCloskey, Sister taught English. She loved teaching and was interested in each student. Atprom time she was known as the match maker. One prom couple that Sister matched up has been happily married for more than 45 years.

When Sister Mary Albert’s teaching career wound down, she still found a way to serve persons who were sick or poor or both; while working in Pastoral Care at Good Samaritan Medical Center in Pottsville, PA for ten years. Her manner was so gracious and her charity so compelling while dealing with patients and families in trying circumstances, that the staff was drawn into following her example. She was noted for her kindness and ability to allay the fears of the patients. Three patients were so inspired by her deep faith and were attracted to Catholicism. She said, “This was God’s work.”

Sister Mary Albert was predeceased by her parents; her sister Alma, and herbrothers, John, Kevin and Vincent and by four nephews and 2 nieces. She is survived by 11 nieces and nephews. Sister found much joy in her many great and greatgrand nieces and nephews.

A wake service remembering Sister will be held at 7 pm on Sunday, May 7, 2023. Calling hours will begin at 4:00 pm when her body is blessed in the DePaul House Chapel, 96 Menand Rd. Albany, NY 12204. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, May 8, 2023 at 10:30 am in the DePaul Chapel. Interment will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands.

Donations may be made to the Daughters of Charity, 4330 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63108-2622.