A Mass of Resurrection was celebrated for Sister Olivia Marie Bellegante on July 2, 2026. A member of Mother of Perpetual Help Residence on the campus of Cardinal Ritter Senior Services in St Louis, MO, Sister died on June 19, 2026, at the age of 93. She was a beloved member of the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help for 61 years.
Sister Olivia, nee Mary, was the youngest child of eight in the family of Ernest and Olive Bellegante. Born in Sopris, CO, Sister enjoyed the blessings of faith, joy, food, and fun within her large Italian family, learning to respect others and to treat everyone kindly.
Ever the athlete on girls’ basketball and softball teams long before it was fashionable, her vivacious spirit invited a wide circle of friends. In high school she was a cheerleader for 3 years, class representative for 2 years, and Senior Class president. She was also Junior College Princess in her hometown of Trinidad, CO.
Attracted to religious life after high school, she spent free time with the Sisters of Charity and eventually befriended a Franciscan Sister of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. She sensed God calling her to become a Franciscan. That choice led to Sister Olivia’s long, dedicated life as a religious.
Sister Olivia earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Marillac College. Her love of teaching and working with students launched her into a 41-year career as a Catholic school educator. Sister left a trail of adoring students and friends in the states of California, Missouri, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, and New Mexico. Her life and her spirit touched the lives of countless people.
In retirement at Mother of Perpetual Help Residence, Sister’s winning smile, kind words, and compassionate personality continued to endear others. She enjoyed creating works of art and visiting the other residents and their families. No person who met Sister Olivia was a stranger after the first “hello.”
An unexpected honor came to Sister Olivia in 2024 when the National Religious Retirement Office featured her photograph front and center on all its outreach materials for the year. With her perennial smile and twinkling eyes, Sister Olivia, with others, graced the vestibules of Catholic churches across the nation.
In her Franciscan community, Sister Olivia was always a bundle of energy, ready to share a quick comment or story, or an expression of gratitude. Her personality effused good vibes, and no one left her without a smile on their faces. Sister Olivia lived a life of true Franciscan service and joy.
Sister Olivia was preceded in death by her parents and siblings. She is survived by numerous loving family members, sisters in community, and friends.
Following the celebration of her life, Sister Olivia Marie is being laid to rest among her Franciscan Sisters at Resurrection Cemetery in Shrewsbury, MO. Memorials in her name are welcomed by the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Donations and stories are being accepted through the website, https://fsolph.org/donations/, by phone at (314) 965-3700 (leave a voicemail for Sister Cheryl at x-111), or through the mail: Franciscan Sisters, 335 S Kirkwood Rd, St Louis, MO 63122. Email info@fsolph.org with memorial questions.
