Dominican Sister of Peace Mary Claire Kirkpatrick, OP, (85), a native of Boston, MA, died on December 10, 2024, at Mohun Health Care Center, Columbus, OH. 
 
Mary Claire was born to Catherine O’Brien and Francis J. Kirkpatrick in 1939. She entered the congregation in 1957, professed her perpetual vows in 1959, and celebrated 65 years professed this year. 
 
Sr. Mary Claire earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a focus in Math and French from State College of Boston, MA, a Master of Science in Religious Education from Fordham University, NY, and a Master of Arts in Profession Studies from New York Theological Seminary.  
 
Sr. Mary Claire dedicated much of her early ministry to education, serving as a teacher and principal in Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, and New York. She later spent nearly 20 years as the Associate Director and Director of Religious Education for parishes in New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. After a brief sabbatical, she continued her service at Pine Street Inn, the largest homeless shelter in New England, working with the Women's Division. Sr. Mary Claire then spent another 20 years as a Pastoral Minister and Coordinator of Religious Education in parishes across Massachusetts. Her final ministry was one of prayer and presence, which she faithfully offered until her passing. 

When Sr. Mary Claire requested admission to the postulancy, she expressed a deep desire "to dedicate her entire life and whatever talents she possessed to the service of God." In the sharing of memories prior to her funeral, those she had ministered to — families and individuals alike — fondly recalled how she had fulfilled this promise. She was remembered for her warm heart, her understanding nature, and her calm, comforting presence. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Catherine O’Brien Kirkpatrick and survived by her brother, Francis Kirkpatrick. 

A Vigil of Remembrance was held on December 27, 2024, at the Dominican Sisters of Peace Motherhouse Chapel, Columbus, OH. The funeral liturgy was on December 28, 2024. 

Memorial gifts in Sister Mary Claire’s memory may be submitted securely online or sent to the Dominican Sisters of Peace, Office of Mission Advancement, 2320 Airport Dr, Columbus, OH 43219. 

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