Sr. Eileen M. Sullivan, PHJC

Sr. Eileen Sullivan (formerly Sr. Christopher) age 90, a lifelong teacher, childcare worker, and Pastoral Care minister, had a twinkle in her eye and love in her heart. She returned to her loving God on July 2, 2024. Born April 12,1934, her family and friends recently celebrated her 90th birthday with great joy. Sr. Eileen’s parents, Daniel and Mary, both born in Ireland, gifted her with the Irish zest for life, witty quips, and a hearty laugh. A Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ (PHJC) for 69 years, Sr. Eileen entered the community on August 5, 1952, and professed her first vows on July 16, 1955.

Along with her siblings, Timothy, Daniel, and Patrick the youngest, Eileen, grew up in the Chicago area. Sr Eileen ministered at Angel Guardian Orphanage (Chicago), St. Vincent Villa (Ft. Wayne, IN) Project Renewal, (Davenport, IA), St. Boniface, (Edwardsville, IL), Sts. James, Nicholas, and Immaculate Conception (Pierron, IL), St. Henry (Chicago), Harbor Catholic (East Chicago, IN). University of Notre Dame, (South Bend, IN), Marian High School (Mishawaka, IN) and the PHJC Ministry Center (Donaldson, IN). Each of these ministries produced lifelong friends who continued to connect with her and support her throughout her days. Sr. Eileen brought the light and love of Christ to all she met.

Sr. Eileen loved to quilt and was proud to display her contribution to quilts, one which hangs at the PHJC Motherhouse in Donaldson, IN. She also kept abreast of the news, engaging in political issues both nationally and internationally, sharing freely her clear perspectives. And she loved to travel, particularly to the “old sod” (Ireland) where cousins welcomed her warmly. Sr. Eileen connected with friends and family at the heart. She was known and well loved by her caregivers, her PHJC Sisters and the co-workers, and all who remained faithful friends.

Friday, July 12, 2024, the Visitation will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m. in Catherine Kasper Convent, Donaldson, IN (EDT). The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. (EDT) in Ancilla Domini Chapel, Donaldson, IN. All are welcome to join in these final celebrations and storytelling of her life. 

The Mass of Christian Bural will be livestreamed at poorhandmaids.org/live. Memorial contributions may be made at www.poorhandmaids.org