SPRINGFIELD — Sister M. Lucille Mertes, OP, died March 10. She was 99 years old.

She was born in Wenona to Nicholas and Mary Meyer Mertes. After professing her vows as a Dominican Sister of Springfield in 1936, she taught and/or administered at St. Edward School and Our Lady of Grace School in Chicago, St. Joseph in Bradley and Holy Rosary in Duluth, Minn. In 1968, she was appointed treasurer of the motherhouse, Sacred Heart Convent.

From 1993 until she "retired," Sister M. Lucille was responsible for the care of the flower beds on the convent grounds. When her physical health prevented her from caring for her roses, she embraced a ministry of full-time prayer.

Sister M. Lucille was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Leonard; and her sisters Rose Krischel, Eva Downey, Margaret Yuhas, and Monica and Frances Mertes.

She is survived by several nieces and nephews and by her Dominican sisters.

A funeral Mass and Rite of Committal was held on March 14, with Father Peter Witchousky, OP, presiding. Burial followed at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Dominican Sisters Retirement Fund, 1237 W. Monroe, Springfield, IL 62704.

Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.