Sr. Francis Regis Mueller, Osu

Sister Francis Regis spent her entire ministry career as a teacher in elementary schools throughout the diocese, and in retirement continued to tutor in the Ursuline Institute of Learning. In a recent interview for the Ursulines’ Annual Report, she noted that if it had been up to her, she would still be in the classroom. The 92-year-old educator died January 2 in the Ursuline Saint Angela Center where she had lived since September 2009.

The former Marie Mueller was born August 8, 1918 in Cleveland to John and Francis Mueller. She joined the Ursulines from the old St. Mary Parish (Carroll Ave.) in February 1939 and professed final vows in 1944. The Villa Angela Academy graduate earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the old St. John College.

Sister Francis Regis’ teaching career included tenures at Immaculate Conception (Cleveland), St. Jerome, St. Mary Magdalene, St. Patrick (Bridge Ave.), St. Malachi, Our Lady of Peace, St. Clare, Holy Cross, St. Joseph (Avon Lake) and St. Mary (Collinwood) schools. Her final assignment before retiring at the motherhouse was St. Paul School in Euclid, where she served 23 years teaching and tutoring. Upon moving to the motherhouse she joined the tutoring corps in the Institute of Learning. She also assisted the Development Office with acknowledgement phone calls.

She is survived by several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Rev. John Mueller, S.M., and a sister, Jane Herman.

Sister Francis Regis will be remembered for her zest for living, her youthful spirit and her ready laugh. She was an outstanding and dedicated educator, a loyal friend, and a loving aunt and cousin.

Donations in her name can be made to the Ursuline Ministry Fund.