Born on Dec. 8, 1935 in Piopolis, Sister Rita Ann was the second of three girls born to Jacob and Irene (Heil) Frey. She made first vows on July 1, 1954 and final vows exactly four years later.

Sister Rita Ann was an elementary school teacher and principal in Iowa, Illinois and Missouri. She taught the first grade, her favorite, but in some small schools she also taught second- and third-graders. In the Springfield diocese, she taught first grade at St. Mary in Taylorville (1955-1956) and at the Catholic Children’s Home in Alton (1961-1965).

Part of Sister Rita Ann’s ministry was sharing her dedication to the Holy Childhood Association, a pontifical mission society. She received the Bishop Fulton J. Sheen Award in 2008 in recognition of her support of the association and efforts to raise awareness of the missions.

Sister Rita Ann is survived by her nieces Cindy Rapp and Carol Gidcumb; four great-nieces and great-nephews; one great-great nephew; friends, and members of the ASC community. Preceding her in death are her parents; her sisters, Madonna Frey and Georgia Ann Kaufman; and her brother-in-law, Clyde Kaufman.

The Mass of Christian Burial was March 1 at the Ruma Center. The reflection was given by Sister Janet McCann, ASC, regional councilor.

Memorial contributions in Sister Rita Ann’s name may be sent to the ASC Retirement Fund, 4233 Sulphur Ave., St. Louis, MO 63109 or made on-line at www.adorers.org by clicking on the “Donate” button in the upper right corner.