Sister Jude Miriam DePalma, OP, of the Dominican Sisters, Sparkill, New York, died on December 19, 2025, in Siena Hall, Dominican Convent, Sparkill, NY. She was 86 years old.
Born in Brooklyn, NY, on November 2, 1939, Helen was the daughter of John and Miriam Stack DePalma. She entered the Dominican Congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary in Sparkill, NY, on September 8, 1957, and received the name Sister Jude Miriam. She professed first vows in 1959 and final vows in 1964.
Sister Jude Miriam received a BS in Education from St. Thomas Aquinas College, Sparkill, NY, in 1962; an MA in English from St. John University, NY, in 1973; and Certification in Gerontology from St. Thomas Aquinas College, Sparkill, NY, in 1989.
Sister Jude Miriam’s ministry of education included St. John Chrysostom School, Bronx, NY (1959-1961); St. Augustine School, New City, NY (1961-1967); and Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, Richmond Hill, NY (1967-1982). From 1982 to 2006, Sister Jude served as the Program Coordinator, and from 2006 to 2018 as the Community Service Coordinator, at Thorpe Senior Center in Sparkill, NY.
Sister Jude Miriam was predeceased by her parents, John and Miriam, and her sister, Mary DePalma Burke. She is survived by her sister, Miriam Heck, her brother John, relatives, Dominican Sisters, Associates, and friends.
Sister Jude Miriam enlightened the minds and hearts of many elementary children. Her service at Thorpe Senior Center was marked by a joyful spirit, meeting the needs of Rockland County’s elderly. Sister Jude Miriam served the congregational goal of proclaiming the Word of God and reverencing all creation. May she be welcomed into the fullness of God’s presence. Well done, good and faithful servant, Sister Jude Miriam DePalma. Rest in peace!
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Visitation and Viewing – 10:00 AM
Funeral Mass – 11:00 AM (Livestream Link to come)