Sister Mary Canisius Lastrapes age 94

Sister Mary Canisius Lastrapes (nee Mary Agnolia) the daughter of the late Thomas Lastrapes and Philomene Chevalier Lastrapes entered eternal life on July 6, 2016. She was 94 years of age. Sister Canisius, born in Arnaudville, Louisiana, entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family on December 8, 1940, made First Vows August 15, 1943, and Perpetual Vows August 15, 1949. Sister Canisius ministered to the people of God primarily through teaching and as administrator in elementary schools; there she could reach entire families. One early assignment was to Holy Family School in Apalachicola, Florida. Sister taught throughout Louisana: Holy Ghost (Marksville), Holy Rosary Institute (Lafayette), St. Peter Claver (Grand Coteau), and St. Joan of Arc (New Orleans). She also served her religious community as Community School Supervisor, local leader, local treasurer, and novice mistress (1977-78). Sister loved her time with the very young when she was assigned to St. John Berchman Child Development Center. Later, she ministered to the elderly at St. John Berchmans Manor – a senior citizens' residence. There she applied her beautiful arts and craft skills while working closely with the residents as the Activity Director; she also served as the housekeeping supervisor. Sr. Canisius was always an industrious and diligent minister of God. When she retired from the missions and returned to the Motherhouse, she lovingly served the Lord through prayer ministry, working in the dining room and pantry, and of course, creating her own jobs. Later due to her health, she entered Lafon Nursing Facility where she resided until her death. Sr. Canisius is preceded in death by her parents and brothers: Boniface, Hanley, Placide, Joseph, and Melvin Lastrapes; her sisters Doris Singleton, Magdalene Mathis, Ruth Samiene, Thelma Lastrapes, and Ozita Lovell. Left to cherish her memory is her twin and best friend Sr. Canice Lastrapes and a host of nieces and nephews. Services will take place Tuesday, July 12, 2016 in the Chapel of the Motherhouse of the Sisters of the Holy Family. Visitation 8:00 a.m., Wake Services 9:15 a.m., Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 a.m. All relatives, friends, and former students are invited to attend. Interment follows in St. Louis #2. MAJESTIC MORTUARY is in charge of all arrangements.