Sister Ritamarie Dressell, formerly known as Sister Bernard Marie, entered into eternal rest on January 4, 2021 at the age of 92.  Born in Waterbury, CT to Bernard Dressell and Rose O'Brien Dressell, Sister Ritamarie was one of five girls and two boys.  Educated by the Sisters of Mercy, she entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1946, one year after high school graduation. Sister Ritamarie professed her perpetual vows in 1949 and went on to teach elementary school for 24 years. After this work she became a school secretary and parish minister. As her mother's health declined, she devoted herself to caring for her mother.

She and her sister, Sister Virginia Dressell, were known as the walking sisters of Waterbury.  Not having a car, they depended on their physical strength to propel them through the streets of Waterbury. As they walked, they would talk with the people they met and offer words of compassion.

Sister Ritamarie moved to Francis Warde Towers at St. Mary Home in West Hartford in 2013. Here she devoted herself to prayer and storytelling.  Sister was a master storyteller recounting her experiences through life and providing much laughter. Her stories were rich with pleasant memories .  She knew how to make others feel welcome. There were no strangers in her life.  She connected with everyone  offering great kindness.

Sister is survived by her sister, Kathleen Brennen and her nephew Tom Monnerat. Her siblings: Stephen, Rose Monnerat, Virginia, Bernard and Barbara predeceased her. She is also survived by her Sisters in the Mercy Community.

The Sisters of  Mercy wish to express their deepest gratitude to the nurses and staff at St. Mary's Home for their loving and compassionate care. Funeral arrangements will be provided by Dillon Baxter Funeral Home. The viewing will be on Friday, January 8, at St. Mary's Church (Annunciation Parish)  626 Willard Ave, Newington, CT 06111 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. followed by the Mass of Resurrection. Burial will be at St. Mary Home Cemetery following the liturgy. Covid protocols will be followed. Memorial donations may be made to Sisters of Mercy, 25 Prescott Street, West Hartford, CT. 06110-2335