Sister Frances Teresa Mirabito, CSJ

Sister Frances Teresa Mirabito, CSJ, 89, died Thursday, February 16, 2017, at St. Joseph's Provincial House, Latham. She had been a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet for the past 68 years.

Sister Frances, the former Anna Margaret Mirabito, was born in Fulton, NY, on July 29, 1927, daughter of the late Ross and Frances Zaia Mirabito. After graduating from Fulton High School, she worked in her family’s grocery store in Fulton. On March 19, 1949, Sister Frances entered the novitiate of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Troy, NY, and professed final vows on August 15, 1956. She received a bachelor’s degree in social studies and a master’s degree in elementary education, both from The College of Saint Rose. Sister Frances taught for 32 years in schools of the Syracuse and Albany Dioceses. For the last 43 years of her active ministry, Sister Frances served the people of Our Lady of Solace Parish, Syracuse: 14 years as a teacher in the school, 26 years as a parish minister, and three years as a volunteer in the merged All Saints Parish.

Sister Frances Teresa was a kind and compassionate woman, blessed with a genial nature, a ready smile and a love of travel and adventure. She was an excellent educator whose warmth and patience endeared herself to students, parents and staff alike. As a parish minister, Sister Frances’ gentle disposition and heartfelt empathy made her a welcome visitor. While faith and service gave meaning to Sister Frances’ life, relationships animated her spirit. Until near the end of her life, she maintained connection with cherished friends and family and was ever thankful for the blessings in her life. Sister Frances was a dedicated teacher and pastoral minister, a devoted Sister of St. Joseph and a loving sister, aunt and friend. She leaves us an enduring legacy of a generous, grateful heart and a unique zest for life.

Sister Frances is survived by seven siblings: Francis (Charlene) Mirabito, Barbara Thomas, Thomas (Lois) Mirabito, Teresa Mirabito, Peter (Debbie) Mirabito, Paul (Barbara) Mirabito, and Margaret Bocsor; a sister-in-law, Pauline Mirabito; 85 nieces and nephews and their families; several cousins; and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. In addition to her parents, Sister Frances was predeceased by her brother, Angelo Mirabito; her sisters, Catherine Boon and Mary Holdorf; her niece, Teresa Boese; and her dear friend, Sister James Christine Steppello.

Sister Frances’ Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, February 22, at 10:30 a.m. from the chapel of St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Latham. Calling hours will be held at the Provincial House on Tuesday, February 21, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Contributions in Sister Frances’ memory may be made to the Development Office of the Sisters of St. Joseph, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, NY 12110.

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