Sister Barbara Werner, OP, formerly, Sister William Joseph, a member of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt, New York for 66 years, died on August 14, 2024. Sister Barbara was born in the Bronx, New York to William and Helen Werner on April 6, 1939. She entered the Sisters of Saint Dominic on September 8, 1957 from St. Nicholas of Tolentine parish, Bronx, New York and professed her final vows on July 1, 1965.
Sister Barbara was a spirit-filled woman, devoted educator, compassionate leader, and a beacon of warmth and dedication throughout her life. From 1960 to 1968, Sister Barbara touched the lives of many as a teacher at St. Benedict School in the Bronx, and continued her mission at St. Margaret of Antioch School in Pearl River from 1968 to 1969. Her journey then led her to Dominican College, where she served as Assistant Professor of Mathematics, and Director of Student Development from 1969 to 1983.
Her commitment to education continued at St. Joseph’s Regional High School in Montvale from 1983 to 1989, and she returned to Dominican College as the Director of the Division of Teacher Education from 1989 to 1993. As Prioress of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt, New York from 1993 to 1999, she guided her community with grace and strength.
Sister Barbara’s legacy of leadership was further solidified during her tenure as Principal of St. John Elementary School in Goshen from 1999 to 2005. She returned to Dominican College in 2010, serving as Coordinator of Freshman Registration and continuing to inspire students as a Math and Freshman Seminar instructor until 2013. She was awarded a 50th anniversary President’s Medal from Dominican University (formerly Dominican College) and was recognized as an Alumna of Distinction. She remained a valued member of the Board of Trustees, always committed to the growth and success of now Dominican University.
Sister Barbara served as Motherhouse administrator from 2014-2016 and continued to be a leader and life-giving presence to the Motherhouse community until her death. She also served on the Boards of St. Dominic Family Services as well as on the Board of the Friends of St. Dominic.
Sister Barbara earned a BS in Education from Dominican College, an MA in Mathematics from Manhattan College and a MA in Administration from Columbia University.
In addition to her religious congregation, Sister Barbara is survived by her sister Mary Douglass (Bob) and her nieces Susan Fliess (Kevin) and Christine Connelly (Mark) and her beloved grandnieces and nephews. Sister Barbara was predeceased by her parents, William and Helen Werner.
Sister Barbara’s life was a testament to her boundless generosity and her unwavering commitment to religious life, education and service. Her legacy will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched. May her soul rest in peace and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend services at:
ST. DOMINIC’S CONVENT, 496 WESTERN HIGHWAY, BLAUVELT, NY 10913
WAKE: WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21, 4 to 7 PM
EVENING PRAYER: AUGUST 21, 6 PM
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: THURSDAY, AUGUST 22 at 10:30 AM
BURIAL: ST. DOMINIC’S CONVENT CEMETERY
Arrangements have been made by Hannemann Funeral Home, Nyack, New York.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt.
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