Sister Béatrice Sauvageau

“You show me the path of life.
In your right hand are pleasures for evermore.” (Ps. 16, 11)

April 5, 2012, Sister Béatrice Sauvageau,
in religion Marie-Éméric went home to God.

She was 85 years old and had been professed for 65 years.
 
Born in Grondines, Quebec, she was the 10th child of Edmond Sauvageau and Marie Paquin.

Béatrice grew up on the shores of the Saint Lawrence River, “in a family in which hospitality, harmony and even some teasing was practised”. She attended the local school until 7th grade, and then helped out on the family farm for 4 years. Since she knew the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary through two of her cousins, Annette and Marguerite Paquin, who were already SNJMS, she decided to follow in their footsteps.

The year of our centennial, Beatrice who was then 18 years old, entered the postulate. After profession, Sister Marie-Éméric spent 12 years on our farms in Dorval and Lachenaie.  During the 40 years that followed, she happily served her community as refectorian, particularly in the convent in St-Lambert, and at Résidence St-André in Longueuil. Her companions appreciated this valiant woman, who was resourceful, dedicated, had a good sense of humour and like to tease. Sister Béatrice confided that she found her daily strength in reading and meditating on the Bible.

When Sister Béatrice was named to the Salaberry residence and later to Sainte-Émélie, she made herself available for service according to her energy level.  Of her it was said:

“Sister Béatrice was a happy and positive woman. She simply took life one day at a time, and did not expect congratulations or rewards.”

“My aunt loved the world, the whole world. That was her recipe. She always had a good word for those around her. She was a ray of sunshine and lit up people’s lives in many ways. Sick, and sometimes in pain, she kept smiling and appreciated all the little blessings throughout the day.”

Admitted to Sacré-Cœur Hospital, she continued to downplay her situation. 
“When the time comes, don’t be sad. You know,” she said to her nephew, “I have been married for more than 60 years and I have never seen my husband!"

It was her way of saying goodbye!
It was her way of expressing her faith, her desire to encounter Jesus!