Sister Madeline Powers, CSJ

Latham-Sister Madeline Powers died at St Joseph’s Provincial House on May 13, 2023. She had been a Sister of St Joseph for 76 years when God called her home.

Madeline was born in Mechanicville, NY, the first child of Lois and Vincent Powers. Two brothers, Vincent and Donald, followed. Madeline graduated from Catholic Central High School in Troy.

Madeline entered the Sisters of St Joseph in 1947 and received her religious name, Sister Vincent Lois. She made first vows in 1949 and final vows in 1952. Fifty years later at her golden jubilee celebration Madeline would proclaim: “My

parents taught me to love with no strings attached, to be accepting of all people and to be a person of integrity.” The gifts she received from family were enriched by her community family, and she loved with no strings attached all her

life.

Madeline was called to teach in numerous grades and then to be a school administrator. The Syracuse Diocese named her Area Superintendent in Oneida and Madison Counties. New York State appointed her Executive Director of the

Catholic School Administrators’ Association. To each ministry Madeline brought love, acceptance, and integrity. She had an amazing ability to see the gifts of each person as well as ways to use those gifts. Although she dearly loved teaching, Madeline was even more excited when she could mentor others. She brought the same upbeat approach to life in her local

community; Madeline was fun. In 1986 Madeline was asked by the community to serve as Director of Personnel.

Three years later the province called her to be Provincial Director. Again, Madeline served with love, acceptance, and integrity. She saw her ministry as a privilege, thanking the sisters daily for their assistance. When her term finished,

she moved to Ballston Lake where she ministered to the parish. Madeline was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.

In addition to her parents, Madeline was predeceased by her brother, Donald, and her stepsister, Judy Breaulac.

She is survived by her brother, Vince.

A wake service for Sister Madeline will take place at St Joseph’s Provincial House  at 7 pm on Thursday, May 18. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 the following day, May 19.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Office of Mission Advancement, St Joseph’s Provincial House, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, NY 12110.