Age 83
A dedicated educator with gentle guidance, Sister Kathleen found joy in helping young people grow in knowledge and faith.
Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, she entered the Sisters of Mercy in Watchung, New Jersey, at the age of 18. She earned a bachelor’s degree in early education from Georgian Court College (now University) in Lakewood, New Jersey, followed by a master’s degree in elementary education from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut.
She taught four years at Saint Joseph Elementary School in North Plainfield, New Jersey, one year at Saint John Elementary School in Collingswood, New Jersey, and three years at Sacred Heart Elementary School in South Plainfield, New Jersey. Next, she served as principal of Saint Mary Elementary School in South Amboy, New Jersey, for nine years. She returned to teaching at Saint Joseph School in Bound Brook, New Jersey, six years before becoming principal for five years. In 1991, she was named principal of Holy Family Academy, formed through the consolidation of Saint Mary and Saint Joseph Schools. In 1994, she received the Outstanding Educator Award from the Diocese of Metuchen in recognition of her excellence in education.
In 1995, Sister Kathleen transitioned to secondary education at Mount Saint Mary Academy in Watchung, New Jerey, where she served in multiple roles, including technology coordinator, bookstore manager, student council advisor, and coordinator of student activities. Sister Kathleen spent her final months at McAuley Hall Health Care Center, embraced by the community she loved.