Sr. Rita McGrath, OP

Sr. Rita (Mary Julia) McGrath, OP, 89, died July 23 at the Dominican Sisters Motherhouse, Springfield. Sr. Rita was born to Ellen (McGuire) and James McGrath in Murrayville. She joined the Dominican Sisters in 1939. Sister spent her life ministering in the fields of elementary education and support services. She began in 1941 teaching first and second grade at St. Christina School in Chicago. For many years following she served at St. Michael, Duluth, MN; St. Edward, Our Lady of Grace, Chicago; St. Maurice, Morrisonville; St. Thomas, Philo; Ss. Peter and Paul, Cary; St. Isidore, Farmersville; Sacred Heart Academy and Sacred Heart Convent, Springfield. Sister Rita was preceded in death by her parents, twin sister Regina and brothers Richard, George, John. She is survived by her brothers, Paul, and Charles; sisters, Mary, and Helen; nieces; nephews; and her Dominican Sisters. Visitation will be held from 3:30-6:30 p.m. Sunday, July 26, 2009 at Sacred Heart Convent Motherhouse, 1237 W. Monroe, Springfield. A vigil service will take place at 6:30 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 27, 2009 at the Sacred Heart Convent Motherhouse with Rev. Peter Witchousky, OP, presiding. Final Commendation and Burial Service will take place following the Mass. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.