Sister Katherine Valentine, OP, of the Dominican Sisters, Sparkill, New York, died in Siena Hall in Dominican Convent on January 20, 2025. She was 85 years old and in her 67th year of religious life.
Born in New York City on May 27, 1939, Katherine was the daughter of Thomas and Mary Collopy Valentine. She entered the Dominican Congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary in Sparkill on September 8, 1957, and received the name Sister Catherine Thomas. She professed first vows in 1959 and final vows in 1964.
Sister Katherine served in the ministry of Child Care in Cardinal McCloskey Home, White Plains, NY (1959-1962, 1965-1995), at St. Ignatius Day Nursery, New York City (1962-1965), and Siena Hall in Wilmington, Delaware (1963-1965). She was a staff member in Dowling Gardens (1995-1999) and Sunrise of Stamford, CT (1999-2000). In 2000 until 2018, Sister Katherine began her ministry at Nativity of Our Blessed Lady School, Bronx, NY, as an Administrative Assistant; she continued her mission of presence and availability to the administration, students, and parents until her retirement in 2018 when she was commended for her dedication and service to the Nativity of Our Blessed Lady School and Parish community.
Sister Katherine is predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Mary, and her brothers, Thomas and Robert. She is survived by her niece Eileen Verde, the Weber Family, Dominican Sisters, Associates, colleagues, and friends.
Sister Katherine was a woman who made a difference in the lives of countless children, parents, and colleagues in each ministry to which she was missioned. Her radiating joy and peaceful presence were a gift to all whom she encountered. Sister Katherine lived the goal of the Dominican Sisters as she proclaimed 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 Katherine Valentine. May you be held in the palm of God’s hands.
Mass of Christian Burial is Friday, January 24, 2025
Welcoming Prayer in Gathering Space, 10:45 am
Mass at 11:00 am
Click here for the funeral livestream link.