SISTER ANNETTA RYAN

SISTER ANNETTA RYAN

Sister Annetta was born on Allumette Island, Quebec and on September 8th, 1948, she entered the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Pembroke and, upon final profession, adopted the religious name of Sister Mary Annetta.

Sister Annetta spoke often of a happy childhood, growing up on a farm, with most of her free time doing chores. Her teaching career began at the very school she attended at St. Joseph’s on Allumette Island; a small one-room country school where all classes were taught by the same teacher. Her ministry of teaching continued at Our Lady of Sorrows in Petawawa (1951-1959) followed by teaching at St. Alphonsus School in Chapeau, near her familial roots once again. Sister Annetta continued her career at Immaculate Conception School where she spent eight years as teacher-Principal.  In the late sixties she moved to Renfrew and taught at St. Joseph’s High School. Her last years of teaching were spent in Pembroke at Fellowes High School (1972-1985) as a Math teacher.  Annetta was always eager to further her education and was a continual learner, enrolling in courses and obtaining many certificates to add to her accomplishments.

Sister Annetta lived a life of service as she was committed to many religious and charitable organizations, sharing her gifts.  She was very proud of her role as the superior of her house in Ottawa in her latter years, hosting students that required housing as they pursued their educations in Ottawa.  She led a house of hospitality and caring.  She was proud of her positions on various RTO (Retired Teachers of Ontario) Committees.  She would lead tours of RTO members in varied locations in the world.

Sister Annetta was full of gratitude for the Lord calling her to be a Sister of St. Joseph.  In September 2023 she celebrated her 75th year of Religious Life.