Please join us as in prayer as we mourn the loss of
Sister Anna Margaret.

Sister Anna Margaret Gilbride
Ursuline Educator, Mentor and Friend

Throughout her 66 years as an Ursuline, Sister Anna Margaret Gilbride (formerly Sister James Francis) shaped the lives of countless individuals entrusted to her care. As a teacher in elementary school and at Ursuline College, and in formation ministry within the congregation, she helped form minds, spirits, and characters. The much beloved educator and community member died January 16 in the Ursuline Saint Angela Center after suffering a stroke. She had lived in the Center since December. She was 85.

The last of seven children born to James and Catherine Gilbride, Sister Anna Margaret was a native Clevelander. The Ursuline Academy of the Sacred Heart graduate joined the Ursulines from St. Catharine Parish in 1945, following in the footsteps of her sister Catharine (formerly Sister Margaret Mary) who entered in 1942. As Sister James Francis she professed final vows in 1950. She earned her undergraduate degree from the old St. John College, a master’s from the University of Notre Dame, and a doctorate in Educational Administration from Kent State University.

She began her ministry career as a primary teacher, serving at Holy Cross, St. Paul, and St. Robert Bellarmine schools in Euclid, and St. Jerome and St. Catharine schools in Cleveland. She worked with sisters in formation for 11 years, first as assistant novice director, then as director, before being assigned to Ursuline College in 1971. Her 40-year tenure there included stints as teacher, administrator, and assistant to the president. Even when elected to a four-year term in congregational leadership, she maintained her position as the college’s Vice President of Student Affairs.

In June Sister Anna Margaret completed a 16-year-project, writing the history of the college. The volume will be published once photo selections are finalized, a fitting tribute both to the author and to the institution she loved.

Sister Anna Margaret likely inspired many vocations. And those who experienced her kindness in the formation program suggest that she saved even more. Ever the gentle and light-hearted mentor, Sister Anna Margaret cheered and consoled many a struggling novice. She also helped foster a deeper interest in and study of Ursuline founder Saint Angela Merici and her charism.

Sister Anna Margaret will be remembered for her gentle and gracious spirit, her ready laughter, and her love of the community. She was a faith-filled woman, a committed religious, a dedicated educator and colleague, a loving aunt and loyal friend.

Sister Anna Margaret is survived by nieces and nephews.

Donations in her name may be made to the Ursuline Sisters.