Sister Barbara M. Cote, RSM, 86, (formerly Sister M Cascia), a Sister of Mercy for 66 years died on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at Mount St. Rita Health Centre. Sister was born in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, the daughter of Frederick and Dorothy (Bliek) Cote. She is survived by her brothers Richard and James Cote and her sister Janet Holt. She was preceded in death by her brother Frederick.
Sister entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1954 and earned a degree in Elementary Education at Catholic Teachers College. She also attended Bryant College. Sister enjoyed teaching young children; she served in several parish schools in the Dioceses of Fall River and Providence. Eventually she was assigned to St. Mary Academy Bay View where she served as secretary to the principal. She loved these years at Bay View enjoying work with teachers, staff, and students.
In later years she volunteered at Our Lady of LaSalette Shrine and the Warde-robe. Her greatest pleasure in these years came from her service given to the sisters by providing transportation to appointments, shopping, and recreational events. She was a good listener and responded to the needs of the sisters at St. Rose of Lima, Bay View and Franklin Court by always being ready to take them out and hear their stories.
Her last years at Franklin Court, she was able to indulge her love of gardening. She planted and tended flowers and vegetables as well as assisting other residents with their gardens. She enjoyed the natural beauty of Bristol in her walks. For the residents and staff of Franklin Court she was a beloved presence because of her kindness to all. The Franklin Court Assisted Living Community will miss her but will continue to emulate her kindness.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 26, 2021 at St John Vianney Church, 3587 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mercy Prayer Service at 10:15 a.m. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Sister’s memory to the Sisters of Mercy, www.sistersofmercy.org/donate, would be appreciated. Information and condolences please visit www. galloglyfuneralhome.com
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