News Summary
Anna Sylvester, a beloved educator and member of the Sisters of Mercy, passed away at 91. Her life was marked by dedication to teaching and community service, impacting countless students over her 38-year career. A visitation and Mass of Christian Burial are scheduled to honor her contributions. Her legacy will inspire future generations.
North Kingstown, Rhode Island – Anna Sylvester, a prominent figure in the education community and a dedicated member of the Sisters of Mercy, passed away on August 31, 2025, at the age of 91. Her lifelong commitment to education and service has left a lasting impact on countless students and families.
Born on July 2, 1934, Anna was the daughter of John and Lucinda Sylvester. She is survived by her sister, Margaret, also known as Sister Marianna Sylvester, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Anna’s family played an essential role in her life, providing support and community throughout her years of service.
Anna graduated from St. Mary’s Bayview Academy in Riverside, Rhode Island, before furthering her education at Rhode Island College, where she earned a Master’s Degree. Following her academic pursuits, Anna devoted 38 years to living as a Sister of Mercy, a vocation that underscored her commitment to teaching and community service.
Anna’s teaching career spanned various parishes across Massachusetts and Rhode Island, where she touched the lives of many students. Most notably, she taught at Gladstone Elementary School in Cranston, Rhode Island, for 22 years, earning a reputation as a passionate educator who was dedicated to her students’ growth and development.
A visitation for Anna Sylvester is scheduled for Monday, September 8, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Church in North Kingstown. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. After the service, Anna will be interred in Notre Dame Cemetery in West Warwick, Rhode Island.
The announcement of her passing was made on September 4, 2025, through an online obituary that has been published in the Providence Journal. Anna Sylvester’s legacy as a community pillar will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her and by the many students whose lives she has positively impacted over the decades.
Anna was not just an educator but also a figure of support and encouragement in the lives of her students. Her method of teaching emphasized not only academics but also the importance of compassion and community involvement. Many have credited her with fostering a love for learning that extended beyond the classroom, as she encouraged students to pursue their passions and contribute positively to society.
Throughout her long career, Anna was also known for her ability to connect with parents and families, creating a sense of community that lifted the educational experience within her classrooms. Her approach brought together families, educators, and students, fostering a nurturing environment for learning and growth.
As the community gathers to celebrate her life and contributions, many will undoubtedly reminisce about the lessons learned from Anna, both in academics and in personal development. Her commitment to service and education will continue to influence generations to come, marking her place in the history of education within the region.
Anna Sylvester’s spirit of service and commitment to education remains an inspiration, echoing in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate to have crossed paths with her. Her legacy exemplifies the integral role that dedicated educators play in shaping the future.
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Andrew Santilli Obituary
- Wikipedia: Education
- Legacy: June Gordon Obituary
- Google Search: Anna Sylvester education community
- GoLocalProv: Colonel Jason Michael Lafferty Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- Tribute Archive: Matthew J. Fournier Obituary
- Google News: Education Community Service
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
