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Remembering Sister Paulette Anne Ducharme, OSU: A Life Dedicated to Education, Spirituality, and Service
A Life of Service and Dedication
Sister Paulette Anne Ducharme, OSU, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2024, in Waterville, Maine, at the age of 76. A beloved member of the Ursuline Sisters community, she leaves behind a legacy of service, education, and spiritual guidance.
Born in Brunswick, Maine, on June 8, 1947, to Raymond J. and Yvette (Letourneau) Ducharme, Paulette Anne felt a deep spiritual calling from a young age. She entered the Ursuline community on September 10, 1967, and professed her vows on March 15, 1970.
A Legacy in Education
Sister Paulette’s passion for education was evident throughout her life. She earned a bachelor’s degree in scripture and a bachelor of fine arts degree from Emmanuel College in Boston. She then went on to earn a master’s degree in spirituality and a master’s degree in education administration from Boston College.
Her teaching career began at Ursuline Academy in Dedham, Massachusetts, where she taught from 1974-76. She then moved to Mount Merici Academy in Waterville, where she taught from 1976-80 and served as principal from 1980-88.
Spiritual Guidance and Chaplaincy
Beyond her work in education, Sister Paulette also dedicated herself to providing spiritual guidance and support. She served as a program director for Catholic Charities in Maine, a chaplain for Maine General Medical Center in Augusta, and a chaplain for Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Upon returning to Waterville in 2009, Sister Paulette served as director of pastoral care for Mount St. Joseph and volunteered as a chaplain at Oak Grove Center for many years.
Leadership and Community Involvement
Sister Paulette’s contributions extended beyond her direct work with students and parishioners. She also held several leadership positions within the Ursuline community, including provincial councilor and superior in the Northeastern Province.
She was actively involved in the Waterville community, serving on the board of directors for several local organizations and volunteering her time to support those in need.
A Life Well-Lived
In addition to her parents, Sister Paulette was preceded in death by her brother, Michael Ducharme. Her memory will be cherished by her Ursuline Sisters, her students, her colleagues, and countless others who were touched by her life.
Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, June 7, in the cemetery at St. Angela Way in Waterville. A Mass will be offered in Lewiston at a later date.
Memorial gifts may be made to the Ursuline Sisters Retirement Fund, 353 S. Sappington Road, St. Louis, MO 63122 or Ursuline Sisters, 1 St. Angela Way, Waterville, Maine 04901.
Sister Paulette Anne Ducharme, OSU, was a woman of faith, dedication, and compassion. Her life was a testament to the power of education, spiritual guidance, and service to others. May her legacy continue to inspire and guide those who knew her and the generations to come.
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