Honoring the Memory
of Those
We Love

Sister M. Francine McDonald, a Sister of St. Francis of the Providence of God for 75 years died on October 9, 2026 at age 96. Born April 17, 1930, as Rita Ann, she is preceded in death by her parents Walter and Nina and 13 siblings, 12 boys and one girl. She is survived by her many nieces, nephews, friends and Sisters of her religious community.

Sister Francine was a gifted educator for forty-four years teaching grades 3-6. She ministered fourteen years at Holy Trinity School in Moon Run PA. She also served in West Mifflin PA, Elisabeth NJ and Coopersville MI. After serving four years at Sts. Peter and Paul in Beaver PA assisting in the school, Sister Francine began a 13-year ministry of service in the congregation’s Spirit and Life Retreat Center where retreatants benefited from her cooking skills and hospitality. She then moved to the newly formed Nativity Convent where she continued to prepare meals for the sisters and serve in many helpful ways. Well known for her cookies, cold beet and chicken noddle soups, Sister Francine loved to share her gifts with Sisters, family and friends. She thoroughly enjoyed reading and remembering her horses. Her positive spirit permeated everything she did. She often shared with those around her: “I have been so blessed my entire life.”

Friends will be received at John F. Slater Funeral Home, 4201 Brownsville Rd, Pittsburgh PA 15227, Monday, October 12, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a Wake Service at 6:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday, October 13, 10:30 AM, St. Germaine Church, 7003 Baptist Rd. Bethel Park PA 15102.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God, 5802 Curry Road, Pittsburgh PA 15236.