A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Oct. 2 in Immaculate Conception Chapel at Mount St. Mary, Watchung, for Mercy Sister Judy Ward
who died Sept. 26 in Overlook Hospital, Summit. She was 87.
A Sister of Mercy for 69 years, Sister Judy, formerly known as Sister Mary John Bosco, was born in Long Branch. She was inspired to pursue her vocation in religious life after encountering the Sisters of Mercy who staff St. James School, Red Bank, where she attended grammar school. She entered the community in 1956 and held a bachelor of arts degree in art from Georgian Court University, Lakewood, and a master of arts degree from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
Sister Judy taught art for 25 years in several Mercy schools including Mount St. Mary Academy and eight years at Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville. She then ministered as a substance abuse counselor in a number of facilities. Since 2000, Sister Judy used her technology and artistic skills at the service of her community, serving at the Mount in communication during which she created monthly newsletters. In 2006, she established “Catherine’s Legacy,” through which she designed inspirational cards. In recent years she established a large following with her Facebook postings which featured poems and quotes each day along with a sketch she created.
Sister Judy was predeceased by her parents and twin sister. She is survived by her cousins and numerous relatives.
Burial was in Holy Redeemer Cemetery, South Plainfield.
Memorial donations may be sent to the Sisters of Mercy, 1645 U.S. Highway 22, Watchung, NJ 07069.