Louise D. Kelly, RSM, (formerly Sister M. Martina, RSM), died peacefully on October 18th in the Baggot Street Community at Saint Mary Home, West Hartford, CT. "Lou" as she was affectionately known was born in Middletown, CT on April 8, 1931 to Francis D. and Olga (Jackson) Kelly. After graduating from high school, she entered the Sisters of Mercy on September 8, 1950.

Sister Lou received a BA in Education /Theology from the Diocesan Teachers' College (1954), an MA in Math Education from the University of Saint Joseph (1970), followed by a Certificate in Pastoral Ministry from the University of Saint Joseph (1980) and a Certificate in Administration from Boston College (1993).

Recognizing the value of education on all levels (Grades 1-12), Sister Lou championed the integration of academics with self-development and social responsibility. Known for her clear, inspiring leadership, Sister Lou's influence extended beyond the classroom as she served in administrative positions at St. Patrick School, Norwich (9 years) and St. James School, Manchester (18 years). She ended her years in formal education teaching mathematics and serving on the administrative staff at Mercy High School, Middletown.

Retiring in 2020 to the Frances Warde Towers at Saint Mary Home, West Hartford, CT, Sister Lou volunteered teaching ESL at the Jubilee House in Hartford.

The Sisters of Mercy and her family were important to her, and she treasured the lifelong friendships she formed and nurtured over the years. Her wise counsel was sought by many as she guided and supported them along their life journey. When asked what she would want people to remember her for she would say, "as a Sister of Mercy who dedicated her life to God in her religious community and in service through the teaching ministry".

Predeceased by her parents, her brothers Philip and Jack and her sister Joyce, she is survived by her sister-in-law Susan Kelly, nieces Laura (Alben), Maria (George); nephew Philip (Deana); grandnephew Jamie and grandnieces Jacqueline, Julia, Charlotte and Camille; her closest friends Mary Daly, RSM, Rita Garneau, RSM, Jean Holehouse, RSM, Claire Plamondon, RSM and the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas.

The Sisters of Mercy are grateful to the staff in the Frances Warde Towers and on Baggot Street Community, Saint Mary Home, for their loving and compassionate care for our Sister Lou.

Sister Lou's Funeral Mass and Wake will be held on Friday, October 27th at Saint Mary Home Chapel, 2021 Albany Avenue, West Hartford. The wake will be from 9:30-11:00 a.m. with the Mass of Resurrection at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Saint Mary Cemetery, 2021 Albany Avenue, West Hartford. To view a livestream of the Mass of Resurrection, please follow this link https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/3330863951

Please consider donations in memory of Sister Lou Kelly to the Sisters of Mercy, 25 Prescott Street, 1st floor, West Hartford, CT 06110.