Sr. Giovanni (Patricia Ann) Cody, OP

Sister Mary Giovanni (Patricia Ann) Cody, a Dominican Sister of Peace, entered her eternal rest on September 18, 2022 at the Philadelphia Protestant Home in Philadelphia, PA. 

She was born on February 4, 1936 in Philadelphia, PA to Raymond and Helen (Jurkofsky) Cody, who preceded her in death.

Prior to entering religious life, she graduated from St. Boniface Business School in Philadelphia, Pa and worked in business for 10 years. She began to feel God calling her to another life and she entered the Dominican Sister of St. Catherine de’Ricci in Elkins Park, PA in 1962 and realized her true calling.  She professed her final vows in 1970.  Known fondly as Sister Gio, she served in ministry for almost 60 years. 

She first ministered at the Fatima Retreat House in Indiana for 10 years.  During this time she obtained a CCD Certificate and taught CCD classes at the retreat house.  She also obtained a Gabriel Richard Leadership Certificate adding to her skills.  Following, she care for the elderly sisters at St. Catherine Hall in Elkins Park, PA for 10 years.  This ministry help her to find her ministry calling as a nurse.  In 1980 she entered the School of Practical Nursing at the Presbyterian University of Pennsylvania Medical Center and ministered there as a GPN/LPN for the next 20 years. 

In 2000 Sister Gio retired from nursing and began her family, neighborhood, and prayer ministry.  During this time she cared for those around her with the same love and affection that she gave to her patients.  One of the things that she enjoyed was walking, and no doubt talking, with friends and neighbors.  She also enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, Broadway and Off Broadway shows, and watching her beloved Phillies.  No doubt, she will be cheering for them from on high. 

Sister Gio was known for her great sense humor.  She gave joy to the lives of those she encountered.  From retreat ministry to nursing to walking with friends, she brought smiles, laughs and God’s love to all. 

She is survived by her aunt, Teresa (Jurkofsky) Cantz, and many, many first and second cousins who always enjoyed her sense of humor at family gatherings.  She was loved by all. 

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate her life with visitation  and Funeral Mass on Friday September 23, 2022 beginning at 9:30am in St. Anne Church (Lower) 2328 East Lehigh Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19125. Funeral Mass at 10:30am. Sister will be laid to rest at New Cathedral Cemetery with her beloved parents at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Dominican Sisters of Peace, Mission Advancement Office at 2320 Airport Drive, Columbus Ohio, 43219-2098. Or, a donation can be made at https://37371.thankyou4caring.org/in-memory-of-deceased-sisters.

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