Sister M. Alberic Martin, RSM

Sister Alberic Martin RSM died peacefully at St. Antoine Residence in North Smithfield, Rhode Island on January 27, 2025.  She was a Sister of Mercy for 80 years.

Born Claire, she was the daughter of George and Mae (Dolan) Martin of Fall River, Massachusetts.  She was predeceased by her parents, and sisters June O’Connor and Ruth Ovalles.  She is survived by nieces Robin, Peggy, Linda, Laurie, Lisa and Leanne.

She entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1944 in Cumberland, Rhode Island. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education at Catholic Teachers College in Providence, Rhode Island.  She spent ten years teaching elementary school in the Diocese of Providence.  She then spent 11 years at the Mercy Generalate in Bethesda, Maryland assisting in the office and with the needs of the Sisters and students at St. Maurice School for exceptional children.  She expressed her joy at this ministry because she felt she was helping to make the school a safe and happy place for everyone there.  She loved the opportunity to be of service to the many Mercy Sisters who visited the Generalate from all over the country.

Upon her return to Rhode Island she lived at Mercy Lodge offering opportunity for gatherings of people belonging to the charismatic movement.  She welcomed people and led groups in prayer and reflection.  She also worked in the Finance Office at St. Mary Academy Bay View.

With Sister Lois Harten, Alberic recognized a need for clothing and other home goods among the clients who received meals and assistance at McAuley house.  They conceived a plan for a place where people could donate goods to be sold at a low price to those in need.  This idea continues today as the Warde-robe in Central Falls, Rhode Island.  Upon Sister Alberic’s death the Warde-robe posted a tribute on Facebook noting that “her selfless spirit and profound commitment to serving those in need reminds us that our work is not just a duty but a calling inspired by love, dignity and hope.”  Within hours over 50 people had responded citing examples of Alberic’s kindness to them. Whenever she spoke of the Warde-robe, she smiled that it had and does help so many.

A life-long blood donor having donated more than 100 pints of blood, Alberic’s final act of service to others was donating her body to Brown University School of Medicine for research.  Through their research they may learn ways that will help other to live long lives.   This is a fitting ending for a woman who spent her whole life living her motto, “To love and do his will.”  There is no doubt she lived a life of love exemplified in mercy to all.

Since the body will be kept by Brown for two years there will be a Memorial Mass celebrating her life on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in St. Aidan & St. Patrick Church, 1460 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland, Rhode Island. A burial will take place at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Warde-Robe, 1286 Broad Street, Central Falls, RI 02863 OR Sisters of Mercy, 15 Highland View Road, Cumberland, RI 02864 would be appreciated. For information and condolences, please visit: www.galloglyfuneralhome.com  

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