Sister Alverna Hollis, a Springfield Dominican Sister for 57 years, died on Dec. 1. Born in Chicago in 1937, her parents, Aloysius and Isabelle Adrian Hollis, named her Adrienne.

Among her many talents, Sister Alverna was known as a life-long student, teacher, artist, author, editor, speaker, consultant, organizer, interpreter for the deaf, fundraiser, traveler and innovator.

After teaching art classes in her early years, Sister Alverna ministered to the deaf community in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois from 1978-1980. She touched the lives of people across the world as Executive Director of the National Catholic Office for the Deaf from 1980-1988. After learning Spanish, she ministered in Peru. Overcoming many challenges, she opened Santo Domingo para Sordos in 1992, the first secondary school for deaf students in Peru.

When Sister Alverna returned to Chicago, she worked in the Archdiocesan Office for Catechesis with the Hispanic community. She also directed the lay ministry formation program for deaf people. Throughout her ministry years, she worked lovingly and tirelessly for the deaf and Hispanic communities.

Sister Alverna was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Pam. She is survived by her sister, Judith; her brother, Paul (Barb); one niece; and four nephews.

A visitation and vigil service was held Dec. 3, 2015 at Sacred Heart Convent. A funeral Mass followed, with Father Joseph Mulcrone presiding. Final commendation was held on Dec. 4, followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the Dominican Sisters Retirement Fund, 1237 W. Monroe St., Springfield, IL 62704.

The Dominican Sisters and the family of Sister Alverna were served by Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, Springfield.