Sister Rosemary Spiegel, R.S.M., 95, a Sister of Mercy of the Americas Mid-Atlantic Community for 78 years, died Oct. 30.
Born in Brooklyn, she attended St. Brigid School, Bushwick, and Mercy Juniorate H.S., before entering the Sisters of Mercy Novitiate in Syosset, L.I. She received the name Sister Mary Daniel and professed final vows in September, 1946.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s in social sciences, both from St. John’s University. She received a certification in history from SUNY at Stony Brook, a certification in individualization from C.W. Post, a certification in administration/supervision from Hofstra University, Hempstead, L.I., and a certification in budgeting from Notre Dame University, Notre Dame, Ind.
She taught elementary grades at Holy Innocents, Flatbush, 1943-46; St. Patrick, Kent Ave., Williamsburg, 1946-47 and 1953-61; St. Patrick, Bay Shore, L.I., 1948-52; and St. Mary, Roslyn, L.I., 1952-53.
She then taught at Catherine McAuley H.S., Flatbush, 1961-66, and Holy Trinity D.H.S., Hicksville, L.I., 1971-79.
She was supervisor of children at the Convent of Mercy, 1947-48; supervisor of high schools, 1971-79, and director of studies for her community, 1973-79.
She also served as finance director at Mater Christi D.H.S., Astoria, 1979-83.
In 1983, she was named principal of St. Agatha School, Sunset Park, and served there until her retirement in 1991.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at the Sisters of Mercy Convent, Whitestone, Nov. 6.
Sorry to hear of Sr. Mary Daniel’s passing. She was my 5th grade teacher at St. Patrick’s School, Kent Ave. I graduated in 1962. She was the lovliest, sweetest person. May she RIP after her life-long ministry of 78 years. The Sisters of Mercy really gave us a wonderful start to our faith as children.
My heart is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sister Rosemary Spiegel (a/k/a Sister Mary Daniel). Sister Mary Daniel was my religion teacher 61/62 at Catherine McAuley H.S. (Brooklyn). She was an amazing teacher and one of the the most dedicated and compassionate women I have ever known. Many years later our paths crossed again when she was assigned to St. Agatha’s school (as principal) and my life was once again blessed. My sons were students at St. Agatha’s school and were (along with the rest of the student body) inspired by this wonderful woman. She dedicated her life to helping children. Rest In Peace Sister Mary Daniel and thank you for being a very special part of my life. I will always treasure our friendship.