Celebrating the life of
Sister Mary Fidelis Barragan R.S.M.
Passed away on February 11, 2014
Sister M. Fidelis Barragan, RSM
SAVANNAH - Sister M. Fidelis Barragan, RSM, nee Nancy Marie Barragan died peacefully at Mercy Convent in Savannah on February 11, 2014, surrounded by the members of her Sisters of Mercy. Daughter of the late Frank and Lottie Culley Barragan, she was also preceded in death by her brother James Barragan, her sister Elizabeth Barragan Bickers, and nephew Michael Barragan.
She is survived by her sister Patty Barragan Schreck and her brother Frank Barragan; nephews Rev. Msgr. Christopher J. Schreck, Rev. J. Gerard Schreck, Bruce Barragan, Frank Barragan III, C. Ross Bickers, James Barragan, Jr., and Peter R. Schreck; and nieces Nancy Schreck, Susan B. Fitzpatrick, Ruth B. Clark, Cecilia B. Hadley, Katherine B. Lyon, and Kay Blum; and her much beloved canine friend, Lucy.
Born September 16, 1925, Sr. Fidelis attended public grade school until the middle of her junior year and later became a proud graduate of St. Vincent's Academy. Four girls from her SVA graduating class entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1943. Sr. Fidelis made her vows of final profession on August 15, 1949. She went on to obtain her degree in English from Mt. St. Agnes College in Baltimore and obtained a Master's degree in Guidance from Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.
Sister had a full life as a teacher of both elementary and secondary schools. She was the beloved teacher at St. Vincent's from 1950-59, during which time she lead the famous St. Vincent's Glee Club, a 100 voice choir, she was then Principal of St. Vincent's Academy from 1960-1965. She went on to serve 18 years as Principal at Mount de Sales in Macon, GA. Her students would say that she expected 110% from them, but she gave 150% of herself to her students.
In 1966, she served in Provincial Administration in Baltimore, MD. In this role, she travelled throughout the U.S. visiting many of the Mercy sponsored ministries and schools and fell in love with driving. In hospital work, she was a pastoral care provider in Mobile, Alabama at Mercy Medical and at St. Joseph's Hospital in Savannah.
In 1993, Sr. Fidelis received the McAuley Medal from St. Vincent's Academy for "dedicated service to God, to her Alma Mater and to humankind". In 2007 she was the recipient of the St. Francis de Sales Award from the Alumni Association of Mount de Sales Academy in Macon, GA. This tribute was for her dedication to faculty and staff as well as the expansion, improvement and growth of the facilities of the school.
Sr. Fidelis chose her religious name because of its meaning: "Fidelity." She often would sing the Christmas hymn "Adeste Fidelis" to those newly introduced to her, so they would recognize her name.
Her ring motto is: "Jesus Alone." Sister Fidelis extended mercy charism in a quiet and compassionate way to all she has encountered.
The Wake will be held on Thursday, February 13th, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, with the Rosary at 6:30 p.m.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, February 14, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Interment will follow in Catholic Cemetery.
Remembrances to the Patty Schreck Music Scholarship
Fund at St. Vincent's Academy, 207 East Liberty St., Savannah, GA 31401, Mercy Convent, 11801 McAuley Dr., Savannah, GA 31419, or the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, 222 East Harris St., Savannah, GA 31401.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.foxandweeks.com
With deepest sympathy to the family for the death of your dear loved one. During this most difficult time, may your hearts be comforted by Jehovah God's promise at Rev. 21:4 'And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.'
- Annie Thomas, Snellville, GA
Michael and I send our thoughts and prayers to your family during this difficult time.
- Kathleen Mahoney Taylor, Savannah, GA
Thank you for the things you taught us as part of your MDS family. There will never be another like you. Alan Wacter MDS Class of 84
- Alan Wacter, Macon, GA
Thank you for the things you taught us as part of your MDS family. There will never be another like you. Alan Wacter MDS Class of 84
- Alan Wacter, Macon, GA
May you rest in the palm of God.
- Damon Woodson, Macon, GA
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. She was a kind and loving presence at St Vincent Academy when I attended. I still remember her all of these years later.
- Linda Chapman Norris, Port Charlotte, FL
Dear Patty and Family, Our deepest sympathy on the passing of Sister Fidelis.She influenced so many lives in so many places.One of God's angels has been called home.She will be missed and all of you will be in our prayers.
- Judy and Tom Mahoney, Savannah, GA
Sr. Fidelis was a remarkable women as so many have expressed here. Also expressed so beautifully by her two nephews; Msgr. Chris and Fr. Gerry at the wake and funeral service. I will not repeat those comments, but would like to express my appreciation to Sr. Fidelis for all she did for Fr. Bede Lightner, after naming him Asst. Principle at Mt. De Sales. They worked wonders together in the area of education. May God grant eternal rest to Both of Them.
- Joe Ebberwein, savannah, GA
My prayers and sympathy to the family.
- Trini Watkins, Savannah, GA
My prayers and sympathy to the family.
- Trini Watkins, Savannah, GA
You will be missed.
- Amalie Gregg Smith, Anna, TX
You taught me so much during my time at Mt de Sales. Your guidance and wisdom has always remained with me. Rest in peace. Class of 1986
- Nathaniel Harrison, Macon, GA
Sister Fidelis represented the heart and soul of excellence in body, mind and spirit that Mount De Sales so proudly exemplifies today. In an often unenviable role as teacher, administrator and disciplinarian; Sister Fidelis was a woman of irreproachable integrity. Through steadfast leadership and an unwavering commitment to education, she created a top tier environment to provide the necessary skills and values for a lifetime. Sister Fidelis had a huge influence on my life and the memories of her and MDS will always be cherished. Thank you Sister Fidelis for the positive impact you had on so many lives. May you rest in peace and my sincere condolences to your family.
- David Pool, Scottsdale, AZ
So sorry about Sister Fidelis. Ann and Pete Conneff
- Ann Conneff, Savannah, GA
Fond memories of a remarkable teacher, Sister Fidelis will be missed. Chlo-E Vincent St. Vincent's Academy 1956
- Chlo-E Pugh Vincent, Las Cruces, NM
Sister Fidelis is in my thoughts and prayers. She was always an inspiration to me during my time at SVA.
- madge harper, Moscow, ID
Will always be indebted to this incredible leader and special friend. Rest in peace, Sister. May you have a bouquet of fresh roses each day. Prayers are offered for your ever supportive and loving family and friends, as well.
- Mary Hill, Savannah, GA
Remembering that you are responsible for many of the fine adults that were your`s during their formative years. We as parents thank you...there will never be another like you.
- gail plekowski, byron, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. We know she will be missed by many.
- Chester and Jody Pierce, Macon, GA
Rest in Peace, Sister Fidelis. Thank you for your inspiration, guidance and kindness. You were hard, but that paid off for so many. What a grand legacy you gave us all. Blessings and love.
- Gary Ballard, Macon, GA
So many memories are called up when thinking about Sr. Fidelis... For many of us, her name was synonomous with Mt. de Sales, one of the very best Mercy high schools during her tenure. She will long be remembered by MDS teachers and students. Love and prayers to Patty, Gerry, Chris, Nancy, and other family as well as to the Sisters of Mercy who knew her. Mike and Carolyn Garvin
- Carolyn R. Garvin, Macon, GA
Patty, Chris, Gerry, Nancy Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of Sr. Fidelis. Although I did know her well, when our paths crossed, she always greeted me with her sweet smile. I'm sure she is well on her way to Paradise. God bless you all.
- Anne Antol, Savannah, GA
What an honor to have known her and had her as a teacher at Mt. de Sales Academy.
- Billy Hurdle, Macon, GA
Dear Patty, Chris, Nancy, and Gerry, Sincere condolences on the death of Sr. Fidelis. As the Dominican Fr. Bede Jarrett once wrote: 'We give them back to you, O God,who gave them to us.Yet as you did not lose them in giving,so we do not lose them by their return. Not as the world gives do you give, O lover of souls. What you give, you do not take away,for what is yours is ours also, if we are yours. Life is eternal and love is immortal,and death is only a horizon,and a horizon is nothing but the limit of our sight. Lift us up, strong Son of God that we may see further;cleanse our eyes that we may see more clearly; draw us closer to yourself that we may know ourselves to be nearer to our loved ones who are with you. And while you prepare a place for us, prepare us also for that happy place,that where you are, we also may be forever'. Be assured of my prayers in the days and weeks ahead.
- Fr. Jay Harrington, OP, COLUMBUS, OH
I will miss Sr. Fidelis so much. I loved her laugh and the happiness she brought to so many. I think I was an adult before I realized that she wasn't my own aunt! May she rest in peace.
- Candy Muncy Poole, Ft Mitchell, AL
To the family of Sister Fidelis, What a remarkable woman she was and she remains forever linked to my time at Mount De Sales. She was committed to the proper education of the students, and she would fiercely defend us all, while holding us accountable for our actions. My appreciation and admiration for her have grown over the years. Rest In Peace.
- Chandler Park Francis, Raleigh, NC
I feel as though I have lost another mother in my life. She was my major supporters throughout high school, college, and early teaching days. I often went to Sister to ask for advice about my graduate school and areas of study and tell her all about my teaching I taught 32 years in the primary grades and always used Sister Fidelis as my mentor. She told me to be firm, let them know where you stand but make sure you do it with love. Pray daily for all of your students and let them see the love of Christ through you. My children always heard stories about the Sisters of Mercy and how much I loved them. The proudest moment of my life was when Sister was leaving Mt De Sales and I went to see her for the last time. She told me that day That she was proud of my of me and my life and that she always thought of me as her son I love you Sister Rest In Peace God Bless Lester Springer MDS 79
- Lester Springer, atlana, GA
Sister Fidelis Enjoy your rest you have more the earned it. Muriel McDowell Jackson, Class of 81
- Muriel McDowell Jackson, Macon, GA
R.I.P. Sr. Fidelis
- Dave Reynolds, Chapel Hill, NC
With deepest sympathy to the family for the death of your dear loved one. During this most difficult time, may your hearts be comforted by Jehovah God's promise at Rev. 21:4 'And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.'
- Annie Thomas, Snellville, GA
Michael and I send our thoughts and prayers to your family during this difficult time.
- Kathleen Mahoney Taylor, Savannah, GA
Thank you for the things you taught us as part of your MDS family. There will never be another like you. Alan Wacter MDS Class of 84
- Alan Wacter, Macon, GA
Thank you for the things you taught us as part of your MDS family. There will never be another like you. Alan Wacter MDS Class of 84
- Alan Wacter, Macon, GA
May you rest in the palm of God.
- Damon Woodson, Macon, GA
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. She was a kind and loving presence at St Vincent Academy when I attended. I still remember her all of these years later.
- Linda Chapman Norris, Port Charlotte, FL
Dear Patty and Family, Our deepest sympathy on the passing of Sister Fidelis.She influenced so many lives in so many places.One of God's angels has been called home.She will be missed and all of you will be in our prayers.
- Judy and Tom Mahoney, Savannah, GA
Sr. Fidelis was a remarkable women as so many have expressed here. Also expressed so beautifully by her two nephews; Msgr. Chris and Fr. Gerry at the wake and funeral service. I will not repeat those comments, but would like to express my appreciation to Sr. Fidelis for all she did for Fr. Bede Lightner, after naming him Asst. Principle at Mt. De Sales. They worked wonders together in the area of education. May God grant eternal rest to Both of Them.
- Joe Ebberwein, savannah, GA
My prayers and sympathy to the family.
- Trini Watkins, Savannah, GA
My prayers and sympathy to the family.
- Trini Watkins, Savannah, GA
You will be missed.
- Amalie Gregg Smith, Anna, TX
You taught me so much during my time at Mt de Sales. Your guidance and wisdom has always remained with me. Rest in peace. Class of 1986
- Nathaniel Harrison, Macon, GA
Sister Fidelis represented the heart and soul of excellence in body, mind and spirit that Mount De Sales so proudly exemplifies today. In an often unenviable role as teacher, administrator and disciplinarian; Sister Fidelis was a woman of irreproachable integrity. Through steadfast leadership and an unwavering commitment to education, she created a top tier environment to provide the necessary skills and values for a lifetime. Sister Fidelis had a huge influence on my life and the memories of her and MDS will always be cherished. Thank you Sister Fidelis for the positive impact you had on so many lives. May you rest in peace and my sincere condolences to your family.
- David Pool, Scottsdale, AZ
So sorry about Sister Fidelis. Ann and Pete Conneff
- Ann Conneff, Savannah, GA
Fond memories of a remarkable teacher, Sister Fidelis will be missed. Chlo-E Vincent St. Vincent's Academy 1956
- Chlo-E Pugh Vincent, Las Cruces, NM
Sister Fidelis is in my thoughts and prayers. She was always an inspiration to me during my time at SVA.
- madge harper, Moscow, ID
Will always be indebted to this incredible leader and special friend. Rest in peace, Sister. May you have a bouquet of fresh roses each day. Prayers are offered for your ever supportive and loving family and friends, as well.
- Mary Hill, Savannah, GA
Remembering that you are responsible for many of the fine adults that were your`s during their formative years. We as parents thank you...there will never be another like you.
- gail plekowski, byron, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. We know she will be missed by many.
- Chester and Jody Pierce, Macon, GA
Rest in Peace, Sister Fidelis. Thank you for your inspiration, guidance and kindness. You were hard, but that paid off for so many. What a grand legacy you gave us all. Blessings and love.
- Gary Ballard, Macon, GA
So many memories are called up when thinking about Sr. Fidelis... For many of us, her name was synonomous with Mt. de Sales, one of the very best Mercy high schools during her tenure. She will long be remembered by MDS teachers and students. Love and prayers to Patty, Gerry, Chris, Nancy, and other family as well as to the Sisters of Mercy who knew her. Mike and Carolyn Garvin
- Carolyn R. Garvin, Macon, GA
Patty, Chris, Gerry, Nancy Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of Sr. Fidelis. Although I did know her well, when our paths crossed, she always greeted me with her sweet smile. I'm sure she is well on her way to Paradise. God bless you all.
- Anne Antol, Savannah, GA
What an honor to have known her and had her as a teacher at Mt. de Sales Academy.
- Billy Hurdle, Macon, GA
Dear Patty, Chris, Nancy, and Gerry, Sincere condolences on the death of Sr. Fidelis. As the Dominican Fr. Bede Jarrett once wrote: 'We give them back to you, O God,who gave them to us.Yet as you did not lose them in giving,so we do not lose them by their return. Not as the world gives do you give, O lover of souls. What you give, you do not take away,for what is yours is ours also, if we are yours. Life is eternal and love is immortal,and death is only a horizon,and a horizon is nothing but the limit of our sight. Lift us up, strong Son of God that we may see further;cleanse our eyes that we may see more clearly; draw us closer to yourself that we may know ourselves to be nearer to our loved ones who are with you. And while you prepare a place for us, prepare us also for that happy place,that where you are, we also may be forever'. Be assured of my prayers in the days and weeks ahead.
- Fr. Jay Harrington, OP, COLUMBUS, OH
I will miss Sr. Fidelis so much. I loved her laugh and the happiness she brought to so many. I think I was an adult before I realized that she wasn't my own aunt! May she rest in peace.
- Candy Muncy Poole, Ft Mitchell, AL
To the family of Sister Fidelis, What a remarkable woman she was and she remains forever linked to my time at Mount De Sales. She was committed to the proper education of the students, and she would fiercely defend us all, while holding us accountable for our actions. My appreciation and admiration for her have grown over the years. Rest In Peace.
- Chandler Park Francis, Raleigh, NC
I feel as though I have lost another mother in my life. She was my major supporters throughout high school, college, and early teaching days. I often went to Sister to ask for advice about my graduate school and areas of study and tell her all about my teaching I taught 32 years in the primary grades and always used Sister Fidelis as my mentor. She told me to be firm, let them know where you stand but make sure you do it with love. Pray daily for all of your students and let them see the love of Christ through you. My children always heard stories about the Sisters of Mercy and how much I loved them. The proudest moment of my life was when Sister was leaving Mt De Sales and I went to see her for the last time. She told me that day That she was proud of my of me and my life and that she always thought of me as her son I love you Sister Rest In Peace God Bless Lester Springer MDS 79
- Lester Springer, atlana, GA
Sister Fidelis Enjoy your rest you have more the earned it. Muriel McDowell Jackson, Class of 81
- Muriel McDowell Jackson, Macon, GA
R.I.P. Sr. Fidelis
- Dave Reynolds, Chapel Hill, NC
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
