Obituary of Sr. Joyce Marie Riley
Sister Joyce Marie Riley (religious name Sister Mary Bernarda), age 96, died peacefully on April 25, 2025, at McAuley Hall Health Care Center in Watchung, New Jersey. She was born in Trenton to Martin and Margaret Riley. Her early education began at Junior High #4 Elementary School in Trenton and continued at Trenton Central High School. Sister Joyce Marie pursued a Master's degree in Elementary Education at the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio, and graduated in 1974. She entered the Sisters of Mercy in Watchung, New Jersey, in 1949.
In her early years, her family relocated to East Trenton, and her life underwent a significant change. There, she met the Sisters of Mercy and joined the Senior Sodality of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Later, she became the prefect of the Sodality Union of Mercer County.
Sister Joyce Marie’s teaching ministry began at the Lakewood Academy, an elementary school where several students were boarders. Child care came naturally to her, and she thrived in the presence of children. When she was assigned to Holy Spirit School in Atlantic City, Sister Joyce coordinated the reading program and served as parish organist. She went on to serve as teacher, vice-principal, and principal at St. Mary School in Bordentown for 22 years.
Sister Joyce Marie was honored for her service to the church and education on several occasions and named “Outstanding Educator in the Trenton Diocese” just before she retired. A speaker noted, "Sister Joyce has planted so many seeds…her spirit will long remain.” In 2000, she moved back to Watchung and spent her final years at McAuley Hall Health Care Center.
Her beloved brothers, Martin and James, and sisters, Patricia and Judy, preceded her in death. She is survived by her sister JoAnn. May she rest in peace and continue to inspire all those who were touched by her encouragement and giving spirit.
Funeral services will take place at McAuley Hall Health Care Center, 1633 U.S. Highway 22 West, Watchung, NJ, on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
Wake: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Welcome Home Service: 10:15 a.m.
Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m.
Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 1200 Cedar Lane, Trenton, NJ.
Memorial donations may be made to the Sisters of Mercy, 1645 U.S. Highway 22 West, Watchung, NJ 07069.
