M.R. Dunn, teacher in Phila.

Margaret Rose Dunn, 65, of South Philadelphia, a Catholic-school teacher for 47 years, died Monday, May 23, of complications from a stroke at VITAS Hospice at Jefferson Methodist Hospital.

Miss Dunn was the daughter of Margaret Pooler and Anthony B. Dunn Sr. A lifelong South Philadelphian, she graduated from the former St. Maria Goretti Catholic High School, where she was a member of the Future Teachers of America.

She earned a bachelor of science degree in elementary education from Holy Family University.

Miss Dunn's influence in Philadelphia's Catholic schools was significant, her family said in a tribute. She touched the lives of thousands of children, and stayed in touch with them and their families after the pupils graduated from school.

"She often received Christmas cards and letters from her former students," said niece Brianna Dunn-Robb. "She filled out their admissions applications for college."

Miss Dunn began her career at St. Anthony's Catholic School, where, under the 18-year tutelage of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, she became a well-rounded teacher.

She taught for a short time at St. Clement-Irenaeus School in Southwest Philadelphia and served as principal of St. Thomas Aquinas School before finding a permanent teaching home for the last 29 years at St. Mary Interparochial School in Center City.

"She brought students into the sun with her love of the English language," her family said.

Miss Dunn taught students not only to write eloquently, but also how to become better people.

Her family described her as wise, strong, thoughtful, encouraging, supportive, quick with a kind word, and loving. "Margie was a vibrant individual who cherished the spirit and hope of young people," her family said.

Outside the classroom, Miss Dunn enjoyed reading and lesson planning.

"We knew on Sundays not to bother her. She would spend Sundays planning for the week," Dunn-Robb said.

In addition to her niece, Miss Dunn is survived by two brothers, three sisters, four nieces, and a nephew.

A viewing from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 26, and a second viewing from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Friday, May 27, both at the Murphy Ruffenach & Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home, 2237 S. Third St., will be followed by a 10 a.m. Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 2319 S. Third St. Burial is in Resurrection Cemetery, Bensalem.

Donations may be made to the Margaret Dunn Scholarship, c/o Jean Meredith, Principal, St. Mary Interparochial School, 500 Locust St., Philadelphia 19106.

bcook@phillynews.com

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