Contributions to the tribute of Sr. Mary Peter Coakley

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joan Warren posted a condolence

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Sorry this is so late coming, but nonetheless sincere. I echo the sentiments listed already, esp the "Work smarter, not harder" that I still find useful today, and I think of it often. I'm so glad that I wrote Sister MARY Peter (she always wanted the "Mary" in there) a letter a few yrs back thanking her for her influence and persuading me to be a Chemistry major. I had a great career in that field, thanks to her great guidance. I got a beautiful letter in reply, and sent her cards on a regular basis thereafter---so glad I did. I recall how I used to drive her places she needed to go since the nuns back then could not drive; she was so calm and reassuring when I'd get lost or miss a turn. Thank you Sister, from the bottom of my heart.

R

Rose Marie Gajewski Wilson '64 posted a condolence

Friday, January 18, 2013

Sister Mary Peter was my minor professor between fall 1960 and graduation 1964. She was the best kind of teacher there is: she made every student feel as though she was her favorite student. She helped me in many ways beyond academic. She was a sympathetic ear during a difficult personal crisis, and always had just the right thing to say. She is the only one of my GCC teachers I ever gave a gift to. As an avid woodworker, I crafted her a pair of bookends embellished with alchemy symbols. I hope she knew how much I valued her teaching, mentoring, understanding, and friendship.

P

Patricia O'Connor Dreyfuss,MD, Class of 1974 posted a condolence

Friday, January 18, 2013

My eyes are tearing, having just learned of the passing of my beloved college professor, Sister Mary Peter Coakley, and being filled with regret for never having followed through with my intention to pay her a visit at the McAuley Health Center. Sister Mary Peter had a major impact on my life... as a teacher, a mentor, and, most importantly, as a role model. A respected scientist, who published research articles under her family name of Margaret Coakley, this great lady brought "big ideas" to her small classrooms. I do believe that some of the groundbreaking research on chelation can be credited to her. As a professor, she never failed to inspire, as well as to instruct. "Don't work harder... work smarter" was a valuable piece of wisdom she often shared with her students:) Although my impulse right now is to cancel my patients and head for Sister's funeral mass this morning, I have decided that I can pay her no greater tribute than to "remain at my post"... something I know that Sister herself would have done. But Sister Mary Peter will be in my prayers today... and in my heart forever.

M

Mary Beth Coccia Tarantino posted a condolence

Friday, January 18, 2013

Sr. Mary Peter was one of my most memorable Professors at the Court. Her enthusiasm encouraged me to be excited about Science. As a Chemistry Professor today, she helped give me the foundation to be an outstanding educator. She was tough and fun at the same time. We learned Chemistry! May the Angels guide you into Paradise and let you rest in the arms of our Blessed Mother. Class of 1979

A

A. Jackson posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Truly sorry for your great loss. May those precious memories be foremost in your hearts and minds during this time of grief and pain. Isaiah 25:8)

Sr. Mary Peter Coakley

1915 - 2013

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