Sr. Benita Reavy, OSB, 1919-2013

Benita Reavy was born on Aug. 14, 1919 in Galesburg, a daughter of Frank and Anna Klein Reavy. She attended St. Mary’s Grade School and St. Mary’s Academy, both of Nauvoo and graduated from St. Ambrose College, Davenport.

Sister Benita entered the Benedictine community on July 26, 1939 and made her final profession as a Benedictine Sister on August 21, 1944. Her ministry included serving as an elementary teacher in the Diocese of Peoria, Gary, Ind. and Chicago. She also did Pastoral Care Ministry in LaSalle and Monmouth.

She is survived by her Benedictine Sisters; nieces, Anne Hyder and Sarah Wood; and extended family. Sister Benita was preceded in death by her parents and eight siblings.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m. Friday August 23, 2013 at St. Mary Monastery, 2200 88th Ave. W., Rock Island, Ill.; Interment: Friday August 23, 2013 at Calvary Cemetery, Rock Island, Ill.