In Memoriam - Sister Patricia Howell, OP

Sister Patricia Howell, OP, a visionary educational leader, passionate champion for justice, and dedicated member of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt for 50 years, entered eternal life on December 29, 2025. Her life stood as a profound testament to the Dominican charism of “preaching for justice,” defined by her unwavering courage and selfless service to the community.

Sister Pat entered the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt on August 31, 1975, and committed her life to Christ through her final profession of vows on December 8, 1984. A proud alumna of Dominican University New York, she earned her Bachelor of Arts and was a celebrated basketball standout. She was inducted into the Dominican University Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame in 1997. She continued her studies at Providence College, earning a Master of Arts in Religious Studies, and later received her New York State Administrative Certification from Fordham University.

While her life was dedicated to service, Sister Pat also embraced its simple joys. She was an ardent New York sports enthusiast, a lover of Motown music, and a formidable card player who relished competitive Sunday afternoon games with family and friends.

Sister Pat’s most enduring legacy is her 24-year commitment to St. Luke’s School in the Bronx, where she served as a teacher (1977–1982) and then as Principal for 19 years (1986–2005). Her impact extended far beyond the classroom; she was a fierce advocate for the safety and health of her students. Sister Pat worked tirelessly with South Bronx Churches and the local police department to establish drug-free zones around schools and houses of worship. Furthermore, she was a key leader in the South Bronx Clean Air Coalition, where she fought successfully to close a toxic waste incinerator that threatened her students and neighbors. The coalition recognized her for her pivotal role in the successful campaign that resulted in the incinerator’s closing.

Her extraordinary leadership was recognized in 2003 when the Archdiocese of New York nominated her for the NCEA New York State Principal of the Year award.

Following her tenure in the Bronx, Sister Pat served as a Councilor on the Leadership Team for the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt (2005–2011) before returning to her passion for education as Principal of St. Anthony School in Nanuet, NY (2011–2017). Her early ministry also included teaching at Visitation School (1975-76) in the Bronx and serving as a teacher and guidance counselor at St. Pius V High School for Girls in Bronx, NY (1984–1986).

In addition to her religious family, Sister Pat was predeceased by her parents, Dorothy and Stanley Howell, and life-long friend Donna McCaffery. She is survived by her sister, Linda (Alan) Wendolski; her brother, Steve (Debbie) Howell; her nephew, Stephen Howell; her niece, Kristen Howell; her second family, Nancy McCaffery Hicks, and her children and grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend services at:

ST. DOMINIC’S CONVENT, 496 WESTERN HIGHWAY, BLAUVELT, NY 10913

WAKE: MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2026, 4:00pm – 7:00pm

EVENING PRAYER: MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2026, 6:00pm

Click here for Evening Prayer Livestream.

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2026, 10:30am

BURIAL: ST. DOMINIC’S CONVENT CEMETERY, immediately following Mass.

Click here for Mass of Christian Burial Livestream. Please note: The Funeral Mass link is available for live viewing only and will not be accessible after Mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt. www.opblauvelt.org/giving

Arrangements have been made by Hannemann Funeral Home, Nyack, NY.