Sister Mary Lois Goldner, CSJ, 102

Sister Mary Lois Goldner, CSJ, 102.

Sister Mary Lois Goldner, CSJ, 102, died peacefully on Nov. 3, at Teresian House in Albany. Sister Mary Lois was born in Syracuse on Aug. 21, 1921, the daughter of (John) Joseph Goldner and Lois Conkey Goldner. 

Sister Mary Lois attended elementary schools in Syracuse and graduated from St. Anthony’s High School. Following completion of courses at Syracuse City Normal, she received a temporary license for elementary education. In 1943, Sister Mary Lois entered the Sisters of St. Joseph in Troy, made first profession in 1946 and pronounced final vows in 1949.

Sister Mary Lois received a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in elementary education from The College of Saint Rose in Albany. Her early ministry was devoted to the education of the youngest of God’s children in kindergarten and primary grades at parochial schools in the Albany and Syracuse dioceses. 

In the fall of 1970, Sister Mary Lois came to St. Joseph’s Provincial House in Latham, where she devoted her many gifts in serving the needs of sister residents. Tiny in stature, she was a giant in assisting others. No job description could adequately include all that she undertook doing what she described as “helping where needed.” In addition to assisting individuals with sewing, reading and other housekeeping tasks, she also helped with many of the spiritual and organizational details of the Provincial House.

Sister Mary Lois’ heart was focused on the religious community, her own prayer and ­reflection. She contributed thoughtful articles to community publications as well as writing for The Evangelist and local newspapers. In this way, she shared her faith with “the Dear Neighbor,” her sisters as well as other readers. 

Sister Mary Lois was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Lois, and her brother, Jack. She is recalled as a loving and caring family member. She especially will be remembered by her sister-in-law, Tamma Goldner, and her nieces, Colleen Brigati and Kim Goldner.

Sister Mary Lois will lovingly be missed by the Sisters of St. Joseph, especially by those who are residents of the Teresian House and by all the caregivers who have provided for her. Her Funeral Liturgy was celebrated at St. Joseph’s Provincial House on Nov. 8. Contributions in Sister Mary Lois’ memory may be made to: The Office of Mission Advancement, St. Joseph’s Provincial House, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, N.Y., 12110.