Obituary of Sister Annette Maria Allard, CSJ

Sister Annette Maria Allard, CSJ, 87, died Tuesday, June 23, 2020, at St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Latham. She had been a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet for the past 67 years. Sister Annette, baptized Winifred Anne Allard, was born on October 22, 1932, in Syracuse, NY, daughter of the late Charles and Winifred Wait Allard. After graduating from Cathedral Academy, she worked in the lithography department of Onondaga Pottery Company (Syracuse China). On March 19, 1953, Sister Annette entered the novitiate of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Troy, NY, and professed final vows on August 15, 1960. Sister Annette received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree, both in elementary education from The College of Saint Rose, and NYS certification in educational administration from SUNY Oswego. For 45 years, she served as teacher, administrator and principal in schools of the Albany and Syracuse Dioceses. In 2000, Sister Annette moved to St. Joseph’s Provincial House where she was a staff member in the Archives for 13 years; she retired from active ministry in 2013. Sister Annette Maria was a gentle woman whose life was focused on prayer and service. As a teacher, she was encouraging, patient, kind and fair. As a principal, she was supportive, open, approachable and accessible. In both roles, Sister Annette listened with her heart and was respected and respectful, compassionate and consistent. Her gifts for showing appreciation and empowering others led to both a strong commitment to the collective mission and a conducive learning environment. Among Sister Annette’s favorite activities were working on crossword and jigsaw puzzles. Her favorite outing was a ride to Waterford for a picnic where the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers meet. Her favorite treat was a pint of butter pecan ice cream. Sister Annette was earnest and welcoming, humble and grateful, and her presence among us will be dearly missed. Sister Annette is survived by her brother, Michael Allard of Constantia, NY; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet with special mention of Sister Mary Ellen Putnam, her beloved friend of over 50 years. In addition to her parents, Sister Annette was predeceased by her sister, Elizabeth (Betty) Allard; her brothers, Fr. Richard Allard, CSB, and Hugh Allard; and her aunts, Sister Dorothy Bernadette Allard, CSJ, and Sister Elizabeth Jean Allard, CSJ. Due to the present health concerns and restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be no public visitation or funeral services for Sister Annette. A Memorial Mass will be scheduled at a later date. Please feel free to use Condolences tab on this page to share a memory of express your on-line condolences.