Sister Barbara Connolly, GNSH, educator and social worker, died April 1, 2019, in White Plains. She was 79 years old and in the 62nd year of her religious life. 

Formerly known as Sister Mary Luke, Sister Barbara was born June 16, 1939, to Luke and Delia (Hernon) Connolly in Long Island City, Queens.

She entered the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart in 1957. She earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology from D'Youville College, Buffalo, and a master's in Social Work from Fordham University, New York City.

For 13 years, Sister Barbara taught at various parish schools staffed by the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart. These included schools in Atlanta, Buffalo (Holy Angels Academy), Jackson Heights and Philadelphia. From 1975 until 2000, she served as a social worker in several organizations focusing on families and children. In 2000, she became the social work coordinator for Mental Health for Hour Children Inc., in Long Island City, a program designed to keep children in touch with their incarcerated mothers. This work engaged her until retirement in 2014.

Sister Barbara was predeceased by her parents and brothers, Michael J. and Dr. Francis J. Connolly. Survivors include a sister, Patricia Connolly, GNSH.  

Burial took place at Resurrection Cemetery, Bensalem, Pa.