December 14, 1932 – February 2, 2026
Please pray for the repose of the soul of Sister Bernadette Newton, who died on February 2, 2026, at Carondelet Village in St. Paul, Minnesota. She was a devoted family member, a wonderfully creative and passionate teacher, a generous hostess, a life-long learner, and a woman who went out of her way to be kind.
Bernadette was born in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, on December 14, 1932, to Lyman and Evelyn (Claflin) Newton. She joined the community of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in 1953, where she was given the name Mary Bernadette.
She earned a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education from St. Catherine University (1967), and a master of arts degree in language arts and elementary administration from the University of Minnesota (1985).
Sister Bernadette was first missioned to teach elementary education (1961-80) at Blessed Sacrament, St.John, and Holy Spirit in St. Paul; South Parks in Minneapolis; St. Joseph, St. Theresa, and Holy Trinity in Hawai`i. She loved her students and saw each one as unique, gifted and holy. This intentionality and care led her to spend nearly 20 years at the University of St. Thomas, teaching and training future teachers (1984-2003). In addition to her time at St. Thomas, she also dedicated ten years as an adjunct faculty member at St. Catherine University (2003-13).
Sister Bernadette always stood up for what she believed, especially when trying to model, in her words, “a life that people recognize as good and holy.” Her expansive view of the Divine, listening heart, and twinkle in her eye will be missed by all who loved her.
Bernadette is preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Norma Sather; and brothers Vernon, Eugene, Lyman Jr. and Bernard. She is survived by her brother Ken, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and nephews, many dear friends, colleagues, and Sisters of St. Joseph and consociates.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, February 12, at 11:00 a.m. CT, in Our Lady of the Presentation Chapel, 1884 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul. A green burial took place on Thursday, February 5 at Resurrection Cemetery in Mendota Heights, Minnesota.
Memorials are preferred to the Sisters of St. Joseph Retirement Fund. Donate online.
Dear Bernadette, rest in love and peace.