Obituaries: Sisters Patricia McGrath, Margaret Dempsey, and Maelene Meehan Remembered

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The obituaries of Sister Patricia McGrath, RSM, Sister Margaret Dempsey, RSM, and Sister Maelene Meehan, OP, who all dedicated their lives to teaching, leadership, and service within their respective religious orders, are detailed. Sister Patricia spent over 40 years at St. Therese of Lisieux School-Little Flower in Brooklyn, while Sister Margaret held various roles including teacher, vocational director, and president at Catholic schools. Sister Maelene taught for 31 years at elementary schools in New York before transitioning to gerontology work.

Why it matters

The passing of these three religious sisters who made significant contributions to Catholic education and community service over decades of work highlights the important role that women religious have played in shaping the lives of students and communities across New York. Their legacies of dedication, compassion, and excellence in their fields will be remembered.

The details

Sister Patricia McGrath, RSM, spent the majority of her 58-year career as a Sister of Mercy teaching and serving as an assistant principal at St. Therese of Lisieux School-Little Flower in Brooklyn, where she was known for her firm but fair approach to discipline and her beautiful singing voice. Sister Margaret Dempsey, RSM, held leadership roles including vocational director, co-principal, and president at various Catholic high schools in addition to serving on multiple boards. Sister Maelene Meehan, OP, taught at elementary schools in New York for 31 years before transitioning to work in gerontology, and was part of the "Pink Carnations" group that entered the Sisters of St. Dominic of Amityville together.

• Sister Patricia McGrath died on January 19, 2026.
• Sister Margaret Dempsey died on January 29, 2026.
• Sister Maelene Meehan passed away on February 7, 2026.