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Blessed are the dead who from now on die in the Lord; they will rest from their labours, for their deeds follow them. -Revelation 14:13
Sr. Nancy D’Souza was born to Mr. Leo D’Souza and Mrs. Mary D’Souza of Pangala, Uduppi, in Karnataka. She entered religious life soon thereafter, joining the Missionary family after her schooling. With deep faith in her heart, she dedicated herself to the service of the Lord and made her First and Final Professions.
The six decades of missionary and religious life Sr. Nancy lived were not mere years and days, but a powerful witness to her unshakable faith, love without measure, and untiring service. She personified mercy and dedication, stamping the life of every person she touched.
Sr. Nancy young nun
At Nirmala High School in Vijayawada, Sr. Nancy ignited the flame of knowledge and faith in the hearts of innumerable children. The classroom was not merely a place of learning; it was a cradle of inspiration wherein the students felt put into value and energized. She recognized the brilliance lying dormant in each and every child, nurturing them with hopes and aspirations. The lives of her students carry her legacy, treasuring the teachings and values she imparted during her lifetime.
Her life was one of commitment and leadership. She started her vocation as a teacher but went on to become the Headmistress of Nirmala High School in Vijayawada. Other than education, she also worked as Provincial Counselor, Secretary, and Local Superior, all of which needed to inspire and lead others.
Sr. Nancy’s missionary work began in Papua New Guinea, where she worked tirelessly for almost thirty years. Her missionary activities in Papua New Guinea for 27 years showed the spirit of courage and resolute commitment to education. Far away from her country, she became a ray of hope for the youth for her dedicated vision. Sr. Nancy’s influence transcended textbooks and classes to reach across continents, weave its way across cultures, and transform generations. Her life and work have enriched all of our lives and left us better for having met her.
She pioneered educational initiatives, establishing Santamaria High School on Good Enough Island. Though faced with incredible challenges such as lack of basic resources and needs to fit into a new culture and education system, she enabled the transformation of the community. Her visionary leadership and dynamic partnership with local and missionary leaders brought the gift of education and hope to the region, creating an enduring legacy.
Sr. Nancy in Papua New Guinea
A woman of great faith, Sr. Nancy relied on prayer and devotion to the Divine Mercy to guide her through trials. She was admirable by all who were around her and was affectionately called the “Iron Lady of Watuluma” for her willpower and determination. She stood her ground and worked without restraint regardless of illness.
Sr. Nancy was a driving force in her community, encouraging collaboration, respecting individual talents, and motivating others to contribute to the mission. The vision she held for the welfare of students and staff was a testament to her selfless commitment to God’s work.
Even in her final years, as her health declined, Sr. Nancy remained a beacon of strength and faith. She found peace in her relationship with the Lord and continued to inspire those around her with her courage and grace.
Her life was a testimony of confidence, courage, and love. She left behind a legacy of peer service, leadership, and unfaltering faith in God’s providence. Her acts and spirit continue to inspire and will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
Thank you, dear Sr. Nancy. May you rest in peace and may your soul inspire us to continue
your legacy of love and service.
Sr. Shaiji Paul Mundackal, Vijayawada
