Sister Theresa Lynch, OP, formerly Sister Gonzaga, a member of the Sisters of Saint Dominic of Blauvelt for 80 years, entered eternal life on November 30, 2024. Sister Theresa was born in New York City to James and Catherine Darcy Lynch on February 19, 1926. She entered the Sisters of Saint Dominic on September 8, 1944 from St. Pius Parish, the Bronx, and professed her first vows on July 5, 1945.

Sister Theresa earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Manhattan College and a master’s in social studies from Hunter College.

Sister Theresa was a hard-working woman who devoted her life to educating youth and being a faith-filled member of her Dominican Congregation. She began her teaching career at St. Anslem School in the Bronx (1947-1954). Over the years, she taught at many schools, including Holy Spirit School in the Bronx (1954-1956), St. Paul School in Daytona Beach, Florida (1956-1964), Holy Cross School in New York City (1964-1969), St. Anthony School, in Oceanside (1969-1970), Our Saviour School, in the Bronx (1970-1971), St. Pius V High School, in the Bronx (1971-1972), and Our Lady of Assumption School, in the Bronx (1972-1977).

Sister Theresa served as principal at St. John the Baptist School in Yonkers, (1977-1984), and then at St. Peter and Paul School in Mt. Vernon, (1984-1993). During these years, she touched the lives of both students and faculty.

After retiring from teaching, Sister Theresa remained devoted to serving others. She worked at the Office of Accountability at St. Dominic’s Family Services (1993-1995). She then served as a receptionist at St. Dominic’s Convent and then administrative clerk at St. Dominic Health office (1995-2003). After retirement, Sister Theresa volunteered at the Motherhouse.

Sister Theresa will be remembered for her devotion to the education of youth, and commitment to caring for others. Her dry sense of humor and skill as a storyteller brought warmth and joy. She had a deep care for her family and loved her nieces and nephews. At the heart of her spiritual life was her devotion to the Blessed Mother and her belief in the power of prayer.

In addition to her religious family, Sister Theresa is survived by her beloved sisters, Claire McKenna and Sister Loretta Lynch, OP, as well as many nieces and nephews. Sister Theresa was predeceased by her parents, James and Catherine Lynch, and her sister, Catherine Riepe.

May she rest in the arms of our loving God.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend services at:
Dominic’s Convent, 496 Western Highway, Blauvelt, NY 10913

Wake: Saturday, December 7, 9:30 am-10:30 am

Mass of Christian Burial: Saturday, December 7 at 10:30 a.m.

Interment will be at St. Dominic’s Convent Cemetery, immediately following Mass.

Arrangements have been made by Hannemann Funeral Home of Nyack.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt.