CONWAY– Sister William Mary, OP (born Rose Mary Conway) of Grand Rapids died June 4, 2014. She was 79 years old and a Dominican Sister for 61 years.
Sister William Mary served as a teacher in the following schools: St. Michael School, Maple Grove; Blessed Sacrament, St. Andrew, Marywood Academy, and Immaculate Heart of Mary Grand Rapids; St. Peter, Douglas; St. Mary Magdalen, Melvindale; St. Norbert, Munger; St. Mary, Muskegon; and St. Joseph, Wright. She earned a B.A. from Aquinas College and an M.A. in elementary education from Michigan State University.
Sister William Mary took classes in Workshop Way® at Xavier University, New Orleans and gained certification and a license as a consultant in the Workshop Way® method. In 1983 Sister William Mary moved to New Orleans as curriculum coordinator of Workshop Way®. For nine years she worked closely with the founder, Sister Grace Pilon, SBS. She edited books, created materials, and taught courses and workshops throughout the United States.
Sister William Mary was a diminutive bundle of energy, outgoing, enthusiastic, and eager to help others. She liked working with children, and opened many minds to the joy of learning. She enjoyed sewing and fancy work, and spending time with her family. She loved life and she especially loved her life as a Dominican Sister.
Sister William Mary is survived by her sister, Sister Carmella Conway, OP; nieces and nephews, many friends and members of her Dominican community.
Sister William Mary will repose at Dominican Chapel/Marywood, 2025 East Fulton Street with visitation on Friday, June 6 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. and a Remembering Service at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 7 at Dominican Chapel/Marywood. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials in Sister William Mary’s name may be made to the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters Health Care Fund.