Remembering Sister Joan Killoran, CSJ

May 3, 1932 – April 28, 2024

Sister Joan Killoran died at the Teresian House, Albany, New York, on April 28, 2024.  She was 91 years old and had been a Sister of St. Joseph for 72 years. Born in Syracuse to Germaine and Francis Killoran, Joan entered the Sisters of St. Joseph after graduating from St. Vincent de Paul School, Syracuse, New York.

After profession of her first vows in 1954, Sister Joan began what she described as “a patchwork of ministry experiences.”  She embraced each mission assignment gladly, moving from elementary to junior high school and then as principal. Gifted with both teaching and administrative skills, Sister Joan had the ability to nurture the best in everyone.  One faculty member summed it up: “She ran a tight ship, but we always had fun!” 

In 1988, after a deeply enriching sabbatical experience, Sister Joan moved into pastoral ministry in Cazenovia, New York. She would hold this position until 2003, stopping only when Madison County recruited her as an itinerant speech therapist. Eventually retiring in Cazenovia, Sister Joan continued her outreach generously. Her “patchwork of ministry” continued.

With a lifelong ability to hear God’s voice, Sister Joan chose to retire at St. Joseph’s Provincial House, where she was a loved community member. When the Sisters of St. Joseph were able to assist their elderly members by moving them to the Teresian House, Sister Joan was among the first group to relocate, always smiling.

Sister Joan cherished many friends and loved spending time with them in simple ways and through travel, a special love. Friends described her as loyal, generous, and steadfast. Sister Joan was also candid, sharing her opinions readily, interested as well in other perspectives. She stayed close to family members, particularly her sister, Betty, and her niece, Lori.

Sister Joan dearly loved her religious community and served it well.  Always ready to volunteer, she personified the description of a Sister of St. Joseph “with sleeves rolled up, willing to serve.”  She will be sorely missed.

Sister Joan was predeceased by her parents, by her sister, Betsy Miller, and two brothers, James and Francis. Her niece, Lori Miller, as well as other family members, survive her. Wake services will be from 2-4 PM followed by a vesper service at 4:00 PM on Thursday, May 16, at St. Joseph’s Provincial House. The funeral liturgy will follow the next day at 11:00 AM.

Contributions in Sister Joan’s memory may be made to the Office of Mission Advancement, St. Joseph’s Provincial House, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, New York, 12110 or donate online.