Sister Virginia Sweeney, RSM

Sister Virginia Sweeney, RSM, a Sister of Mercy for 82 years, died peacefully on May 8, 2026 at St. Antoine Residence in North Smithfield, Rhode Island.  She was the daughter of the late James and Genevieve (Cade) Sweeney and the step- daughter of Anna Sweeney.  She was preceded in death by her sister Sarah (Sally) King and her brother James A. Sweeney. She is survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Virginia entered the Sisters of Mercy in Cumberland on September 8, 1943.  For her motto at profession she chose; “In His Will is My Peace.”  Her religious name was Sister Edith but she returned to Virginia Mary in 1967.  Upon completing her education, she would be a teacher in the Diocese of Fall River schools for over 50 years. After teaching primary grades for fourteen years in Fall River, she spent a year teaching in California.

Upon her return, she served on the faculty of Holy Family, Holy Name High School in Fall River for twenty-six years. Upon her retirement she ministered at Mount St. Rita Health Centre.  Her final years were spent at St. Antoine Residence where she was greatly loved by staff and residents.

Her motto “In His Will is My Peace” was a lived reality for all who knew her.  To speak with her was to have her undivided attention.  She had a way of giving support in difficult situations and enhancing the joy of happy moments. She was never too busy to hear another person.

For a woman who vowed her life to follow the Lord who said that we must love one another, what a tribute it is to have those who knew her say that kindness was the virtue they remember her for.

The funeral will be held at Saint Aidan and Saint Patrick Church, 1460 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland, RI on Saturday, May 16, 2026.  Visitation will begin at    9:00 a.m. and a Mercy prayer service at 9:45 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m.  Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery, 261 W. Wrentham Road, Cumberland, RI immediately following the Liturgy. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Saint Antoine Special Care Unit, 10 Rhodes Ave., N. Smithfield, RI 02896, or Sisters of Mercy, 15 Highland View Dr., Cumberland, RI 02864.

For information and condolences, please visit: www.galloglyfuneralhome.com

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