Sister Mary Hourigan
Sister Mary Hourigan OP of the Dominican Sisters, Sparkill, New York, died on Oct. 11, 2021, in Siena Hall, Dominican Convent, Sparkill, N.Y. She was 87 years old.
Born in New York City on Oct. 1, 1934, Mary was the daughter of William and Bridget Fox Hourigan. She entered the Dominican Congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary in Sparkill on Sept. 7, 1952, and received the name Sister William Marie. She professed her first vows in 1954 and final vows in 1959.
Sister Mary received her BS degree in education from Fordham University, 1959; her MS in English from Salisbury State College, Maryland, 1974; and Library Certification from the University of Maryland, 1977. Sister Mary taught at St. Brendan School, Bronx, N.Y., 1954-1960; St. Madeleine Sophie School, Schenectady, N.Y., 1960-1967; St. Vito School, Mamaroneck, N.Y., 1967-1970; and Sts. Peter & Paul School, Easton, Md., 1970-1979. In 1979, Sister Mary responded to the needs of the Native American community in the Diocese of Great Falls/Billings as teacher at St. Paul’s Mission (1979-1982); Our Lady of Lourdes as parish minister (1982-2001); and at Immaculate Conception as parish minister (2001-2013). She retired to Dominican Convent in 2013.
Sister Mary is predeceased by her parents, William and Bridget Fox Hourigan; her sister, Kathleen; and brother, William.
She is survived by her sister, Bridget; nieces and nephews; and their families.
Sister Mary Hourigan made a difference in the lives of countless young people in her ministry of education, pastoral ministry, and service to the Native American community in Montana for 34 years. With joy she carried forth 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 Mary Hourigan. May you rest in peace!
Reception of the Body was held Monday, Oct. 18, at 9:30 a.m. Prayer will be at 10 a.m., followed by Mass and Christian Burial at 11 a.m.
(Paid Obituary)
