I have competed well, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7
It is sad to learn that Sr. Patrice (Barbara) Wales died on 17 October 2023 at the age of 88, at St. Mary’s infirmary in Huntington, WV. She will be buried in Laurel, MD.
Sr. Patrice was born on September 9, 1935, in Washington, DC, in the noble and loving family of Robert and Bernadette Wales, as an only child.
At the age of 22 Patrice entered the international Congregation of the Pallottine Missionary Sisters in 1957, made her First Vows on August 15, 1960, and her Final Vows in 1966 in Huntington, WV.
By education she was a biologist. In 1957 at Dunbarton College she received her B.A. Degree in Biology, later at Catholic University she obtained a M.S. Degree in Biology. In 1994, Sr. Patrice studied at the University of Maryland, where she graduated with a Ph.D., Ed. Policy & Administration Degree.
Teaching was her passion and her mission. Many years of her dedicated work as a teacher and educator with the youth in Pallotti High School paved future ways for many young people. Sr. Patrice was loved by her students, and was greatly respected by parents, staff and people in Laurel. Sister’s ministries were carried out at Pallotti High School Laurel, Maryland, from 1960-2004, holding positions of teacher and in Pallotti High School Administration. She was a person of high intelligence and culture, of open and gentle heart, deep faith and sense of humor.
March of 2004 was surprising for Sr. Patrice as the members of the General Chapter elected her to the office as the General Councilor to serve the Pallottine Congregation in Rome. There she worked faithfully for 12 years, sharing her wisdom, talents and her experience in administration. She was completely dedicated to her role.
During her time in Rome, she met with many Pallottine Lay Members, Sisters and Fathers of the UAC, as well as with various people of different cultures, color and religion. This experience increased in her love for the Founder, St. Vincent Pallotti, the knowledge about the diversity of the Pallottine Family all over the world, and the richness of the Universal Church.
All who met her and worked with her remember Sr. Patrice as a woman of happiness, love, and relationships; very loyal and always smiling. May she rest in peace!
Sr. Izabela Świerad SAC
Photo: Pallottine Missionary Sisters Huntington
