Sister Margaret Mary Gleeson, OP, formerly Sister Miriam Joseph, a member of the Sisters of Saint Dominic for 73 years, entered eternal life on January 5, 2025. Sister Margaret Mary was born in the Bronx, NY to Cornelius and Margaret Griffin Gleeson on November 27, 1933. She entered the Sisters of Saint Dominic on September 12, 1951 from St. Luke’s, Bronx, NY and professed her first vows on July 3, 1953.
Affectionately known as Sister Mimi, she led a faithful and devoted life as a sister, esteemed educator, and cherished mentor. Her deep faith was the cornerstone of her work and guiding her as an educator, counselor, and spiritual leader. Sister Mimi's academic journey was remarkable, and she earned several advanced degrees that would influence her work for decades. A proud alumna of Fordham University, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, a Master of Arts in Latin and Greek, and a Doctorate in Psychology. She also earned a Master of Science in Psychology from the New School for Social Research. Throughout her academic pursuits, Sister Mimi was known for her unwavering commitment to knowledge, and her passion for sharing those insights with her students and peers.
Sister Mimi’s long and illustrious teaching career spanned nearly six decades. She began her teaching ministry in 1954 at St. Pius Convent, where she served as a teacher until 1957. She went on to teach at St. Mary Star of the Sea (1957-1961), Our Lady of the Rosary (1961-1965), and Our Saviour School (1965-1967), where she was known for her warmth, kindness, and passion for inspiring young minds.
In the years that followed, Sister Mimi taught at numerous schools, each time bringing a deep sense of commitment to academics and spiritual development. She served at Fr. Lopez High School (1967-1969), Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament (1969-1970), St. Philip & James School (1970-1971), St. Catharine’s School (1971-1975), and St. Nicholas of Tolentine (1975-1981). She guided her students, teaching them the importance of prayer, faith, and perseverance in learning.
In 1981, Sister Mimi made the transition to higher education as an Associate Professor of Psychology at Dominican College, where she would serve for over 30 years, shaping the minds of college students and guiding them in their studies of psychology, human behavior, and personal growth. After her retirement in 2012, Sister Mimi continued to serve her beloved Dominican College by volunteering in the Nursing Program. Sister Mimi was a beloved sister, teacher, mentor, and friend, and her memory will live on in the countless lives she touched.
In addition to her religious family, Sister Mimi is survived by her sister-in-law Ellen Gleeson, her niece Maura Maier and husband William, niece Brenda Cassidy and husband Kevin, nephew Brian Gleeson and wife Carrie, nephew Sean Gleeson and wife Deborah, and her many great nieces and nephews. Sister Mimi was predeceased by her parents Cornelius and Margaret Gleeson and her brother Cornelius Gleeson.
May she rest in peace, her soul now reunited with the Lord she loved so dearly.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend services at:
ST. DOMINIC’S CONVENT, 496 WESTERN HIGHWAY, BLAUVELT, NY 10913
WAKE: THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 9:30AM – 10:30AM
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: THURSDAY, JANUARY 9 at 10:30AM
BURIAL: ST. DOMINIC’S CONVENT CEMETERY, immediately following Mass.
Arrangements have been made by Hannemann Funeral Home, Nyack, NY.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt.