Sister Theresa O'Donnell, 84, teacher who traveled far

Sister Theresa O'Donnell, 84, who taught school in the Philadelphia area and elsewhere, died of heart failure at Holy Child Center in Rosemont on Easter, March 31.

Born in Philadelphia, Sister Theresa graduated from West Philadelphia Catholic Girls High School in 1946. She earned a bachelor's degree in history from Immaculate Heart University.

In 1947, Sister Theresa entered the Society of the Holy Child Jesus. She professed her first vows in 1950 and her final vows in 1955.

Sister Theresa specialized in elementary education, particularly first grade. She taught at St. James School in Philadelphia from 1950 to 1952. Also in the Philadelphia area, Sister Theresa taught at St. Edward's School from 1970 to 1972; at Holy Spirit School in Sharon Hill from 1972 to 1976; and at Holy Child Academy in Drexel Hill from 1977 to 1981.

Sister Theresa also served schools in Illinois, California, Oregon, and New York. Finally, for 18 years ending in 2002, she taught at Annunciation School in Washington, D.C.

"Sister Theresa was an excellent teacher with a happy disposition that brought out the best in her pupils," said Kim Cavallero, spokeswoman for the Society of the Holy Child Jesus/American Province.

In her spare time, Sister Theresa enjoyed all things Irish, and was an avid Phillies fan and a tireless walker, Cavallero said.

Surviving are a sister, Kitty McMullan, and a brother, Jack O'Donnell.

Services were Wednesday, April 3. Burial was at Calvary Cemetery in Conshohocken.

Donations may be sent to the SHCJ Retirement Fund, 1341 Montgomery Ave., Rosemont, Pa., 19010.

Condolences to the family may be offered at www.donohuefuneralhome.com.