Sister Rita Reff

CLAYTON — Sister Rita Reff, C.S.C. (Sister Elizabeth Ann), a Sister of Holy Cross, died on Monday, June 27, 2009 at St. Joseph Pavilion, St. Laurent, Quebec, at the age of 91, 73 years in religious life. She was the first-born of Charles John Reff and Mary Elizabeth Moineau, Clayton, N.Y. In addition to her Holy Cross family, Sister is mourned by her siblings Virginia Comins (the late Raymond) of Clayton, N.Y., Sister Faith, C.S.C. of Ottawa, Grace Ahlheim (John) of Watertown, N.Y.., Charles (Pat) of Watertown, N.Y., Robert (Pat) of Campbellsville, Kentucky, and their extended families. Predeceased by her brother John (Lorraine).

Sister Rita was loved as an educator, especially by her high school students in Montreal and at Iona Academy, St. Raphael's West. As a religious education coordinator, she served generously in New York State at Rouses Point and Clayton. Her service to the community included novice director, local superior in several houses, and more recently in service to the sick and senior sisters at the infirmary. Her spirit of compassion and understanding endeared her to all.

Visitation will be at St. Joseph Pavilion, 900 Cote Vertu, St. Laurent, on Friday, July 3. from 6 to 9 p.m., prayer service at 7:30. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 4, at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph Pavilion. Donations to Holy Cross Missions would be gratefully appreciated.