Sister Barbara Anne Seaward, died on April 3, 2024. Barbara entered eternal life to be embraced by the God she had loved and served so well for almost 59 years. She was 77 years old. 

Barbara grew up with her family in Christ the King Parish in Springfield Gardens. 

After high school, she entered the Amityville Dominican Congregation on Sept. 12, 1965. 

A year later, she and the members of her set received the Dominican habit and their religious names. Barbara was given the name Sister John Robert. On Aug. 8, 1967, she professed vows of poverty, consecrated celibacy, and obedience. 

Barbara studied nursing at Molloy College and served in hospitals and schools in Nassau County as well as in the Dominican Motherhouse. In addition, she ministered with the Nursing Sisters Home Visiting Service of Rockville Centre. 

The cruel disease of multiple sclerosis brought changes to Barbara’s life. 

Her medical knowledge and love of animals started her on a new path. She rescued and adopted abused, handicapped, and unwanted birds and trained them for pet therapy at nursing homes, adult care centers, and schools throughout Long Island. 

This Wings of Love ministry brought joy to so many people. 

The last months of Barbara’s life were not easy. She suffered greatly but was cared for lovingly by the nurses and aides in Carlin Hall. 

The wake and funeral for our Sister Barbara took place in St. Albert Chapel on Monday, April 8, 2024. 

The Mass of Christian Burial was followed by interment on St. Dominic Cemetery on the Motherhouse grounds.