In Memoriam: Sr. Kathleen McHugh

Sister Kathleen saw her many years of ministry as a natural flow of responding to others in need of care at various stages of life. From three-and four-year-olds experiencing little stability in their lives to seniors in need, she affected the lives of many in their times of vulnerability. Her gentle touch and steady presence were often the “saving grace” needed at the time.

Sister Kathleen Ann McHugh, Sister Noreen Marie, was born January 23, 1938, in the Bronx, New York. She was one of four children, two daughters and two sons of John and Nora Clarke McHugh. Kathleen attended Sacred Heart Elementary in the Bronx and Cathedral High School in Manhattan. After graduation, Kathleen worked for three years before entering the Sisters of Charity of New York on September 8, 1958. Sister Noreen received a BA in Psychology from the College of New Rochelle and was awarded a Practical Nurse License by New York State.

Sister Kathleen dedicated her early years of active ministry to the care of young children and fifty years later concluded her service with sisters in retirement. She served at Holy Name Day Nursery in Manhattan and as staff and supervisor for eleven years at Saint Agatha Home, Nanuet. After receiving her LPN, she ministered for twenty-eight years at The New York Foundling in Manhattan and, later, joined the administration team at Convent of Mary the Queen in Yonkers with her appointment as Director of Human Resources. Following her retirement in 2012, she continued to volunteer at Mary the Queen until it closed in 2015. She later moved to live with the retirement community at Saint Patrick Villa, remaining in the Nanuet area where she resided for many years.

Sister Kathleen died on November 3, 2025 at Cabrini of Westchester in the 67th year of commitment as a Sister of Charity of New York.

Sister Kathleen saw her many years of ministry as a natural flow of responding to others in need of care at various stages of life. From three-and four-year-olds experiencing little stability in their lives to seniors in need, she affected the lives of many in their times of vulnerability. Her gentle touch and steady presence were often the “saving grace” needed at the time.

For relaxation, Sister Kathleen found that a good book or engaging movie, a shopping excursion or planned travel offered just what was needed. She also enjoyed being with friends for a meal in a neighborhood restaurant.

Sister Kathleen, in Matthew 25:40, we hear Jesus say, “. . .  whatever you did for one of these . . . you did for me.” Your life of service was dedicated to others in need of compassionate care. You are being invited to accept the fullness of life and love promised by our God from all eternity. May your passage to the completion of your journey be in peace.