Sister Dorothy Russell OP, of the Dominican Sisters, Sparkill, New York, died on February 2, 2026, in Dominican Convent Siena Hall. She was 99 years old. Born in Brooklyn, NY, on March 13, 1926, Dorothy was the daughter of Thomas and Alice Clarke Russell. She entered the Dominican Congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary in Sparkill on September 8, 1945, and received the name Sister Alice Thomas. She professed her first vows in 1947 and her final vows in 1952. Sister Dorothy received a BS in Education from Fordham University, Bronx, NY, in 1955 and an MA in Library Science from St John University, NY, in 1964.
Sister Dorothy began her teaching ministry at St. Ignatius Day Nursery, NYC (1947-1948); St. Catherine of Siena School, NYC (1948-1952); St. Brendan School, Bronx, NY (1952-1953); St. John Chrysostom School, Bronx, NY (1953-1956); SS. Peter & Paul School, Easton, MD (1956-1969); and Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, Brooklyn, NY (1969-1977). From 1977 to 2010, Sister Dorothy served as Director of Religious Education at St. Jerome Parish in Largo, FL (1977-1989) and at Blessed Sacrament Parish (1989-2010) in the Diocese of St. Petersburg, FL. Sister Dorothy returned to Dominican Convent, Sparkill, in 2010. During her retirement, she participated in the life and mission of the Dominican Sisters at Siena Hall and was often seen with a book in hand.
Sister Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Alice Clark Russell. She is survived by her Dominican Sisters and Associates and friends. Sister Dorothy made a significant impact on the lives of countless young people through her ministry of teaching in elementary schools and as a Director of Religious Education, where she brought the Gospel to life for both children and parents. Quietly and peacefully, Sister Dorothy carried forward the mission of the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill to proclaim the Word of God through ministry for justice and reverence for all creation. May she be welcomed into the fullness of God’s presence. Well done, good and faithful servant, Sister Dorothy Russell. May you be held in the palm of God’s hand!
Viewing and Mass of Christian Burial
Thursday, February 5, 2026
Wake: 9:30 am; Prayer Service 10:00 am; Mass at 11:00 am
Wake Service: Click here for the livestream link.
Funeral Service: Click here for the livestream link.