Sister Joan Bartin, OP, of the Dominican Sisters, Sparkill, New York, died on August 19, 2026, in Siena Hall, Dominican Convent. She was 95 years old.
Born in St. Louis, MO, on January 27, 1931, Mary Joan was the daughter of John and Helen Bawn Bartin. She entered the Dominican Congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary in Sparkill on September 8, 1952, and received the name Sister John Louise. She professed her first vows in 1954 and final vows in 1959.
Sister Joan received a BA in Education from Webster College, St. Louis, MO, in 1960, and an MRE in Religious Education from St. Thomas University, Houston, TX, in 1975.
Sister Joan’s ministries included Holy Redeemer School, St. Louis, MO (1954-1965 as teacher and again in 1972-1975 as Religious Education Coordinator); Epiphany of Our Lord School, St. Louis, MO (1965-1968); Little Flower School, St. Louis, MO (1968-1969); Religious Education/Teacher, St. Mary Magdalen Parish, Webster Groves, MO (1969-1972); Pastoral Associate, Immaculate Conception Parish, St. Louis, MO (1975-1979); and Campus Minister, Washington University, St. Louis, MO (1979-1980). From 1980 until 2009, Sister Joan served the Native American community in Montana in the Diocese of St. Helena, as Pastoral Associate at Sacred Heart Mission.
Sister Joan is predeceased by her parents, John and Helen Bawn Bartin, and her brothers Thomas, John, and Robert. She is survived by her sister-in-law Marianne, nephews, nieces, and her Dominican Sisters, Associates, and friends.
Sister Joan was a joyful woman of prayer and compassion who touched the lives of countless children, parents, and colleagues in her educational and pastoral ministries in St. Louis, MO, and Montana. She was known and loved for her tireless advocacy for all victims of injustice. Sister Joan truly proclaimed the Word of God through ministry for justice and reverence for all of God’s creation. We thank God for her life and presence. Well done, good and faithful servant, Sister Joan Bartin—may the angels lead you into paradise! Rest in peace.
Mass of Christian Burial
Dominican Convent
Wednesday, August 26, 2026
11:00 AM