Sister Theresa Docherty, OP, devoted nearly 50 years to Catholic education across the Bronx, Carmel, Peekskill, and Sparkill, touching generations of students with quiet grace before entering eternal life on July 24, 2026, at age 88
Sister Theresa Docherty, OP, of the Dominican Sisters, Sparkill, entered eternal life on July 24, 2026, in Siena Hall, Dominican Convent, Sparkill. She was 88 years old.
Born in Brooklyn on September 8, 1937, Theresa was the daughter of Thomas and Bridget Gribbon Docherty. She entered the Dominican Congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary in Sparkill on September 8, 1957, and received the name Sister Thomas Therese. She professed her first vows in 1959 and her final vows in 1964.
Sister Theresa earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from St. Thomas Aquinas College, Sparkill, in 1964; a Master of Science in Education from Western Connecticut State College, Danbury, Conn. in 1973; and Certification in Administration and Supervision from Fordham University in 1978.
Sister Theresa began her ministry in education at Cardinal McCloskey Home and School in White Plains (1959-1960), followed by teaching positions at St. Helena School in the Bronx (1960-1962), St. Rita School in the Bronx (1962-1969), and as Principal at St. James School in Carmel (1969-1986). She then served at Transfiguration School in Tarrytown(1986-1987); as Assistant Principal at Assumption School in Peekskill (1987-2007); and finally as a staff member in the Office of Financial Services at Dominican Convent, Sparkill (2007-2013).
Sister Theresa was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Bridget Gribbon Docherty. She is survived by her cousins, Dominican Sisters, Associates, and friends.
Throughout her ministry of education, Sister Theresa significantly impacted the lives of many children, parents, and colleagues with a quiet and gracious presence. She embodied the mission and goals of the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill, proclaiming the Word of God through her commitment to justice and reverence for all creation. Well done, Sister Theresa Docherty. May God hold you in the palm of his hand as you are welcomed into the fullness of his presence. Rest in peace, faithful servant.
Viewing and Mass of Christian Burial
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Wake: 9:30 a.m.; Prayer Service 10 a.m.; Mass at 11 a.m.