Sister Mary Francis Dirr, SND
January 9, 1922 – June 27, 2026
Professed August 13, 1946
Born Mary Elizabeth Dirr on January 9, 1922, Sister Mary Francis was educated by the Sisters of Notre Dame at St. Martin Elementary School and graduated from Seton High School in Price Hill. After knowing the sisters at school, she felt called to religious life and entered in 1943, where her older sister was already a Sister of Notre Dame.
After professing her vows in 1946, Sister Mary Francis dedicated her ministry to serving children with special needs. She earned degrees and certifications in elementary education, occupational therapy and special education which prepared her for a lifetime of compassionate service. Sister Mary Francis, the oldest sister of the Sisters of Notre Dame in the United States, ministered for and with God’s people for more than 58 years.
Throughout her ministry, Sister Francis served as a teacher, principal and administrator at several schools and institutions, including St. Aloysius Orphanage, the former St. Joseph Children’s Home and Holy Trinity Catholic School. Sister Francis then spent 13 years at Redwood School and Rehabilitation Center, where she advocated for children with disabilities and helped them recognize their God-given dignity and potential.
She later devoted her ministry to the Diocesan Catholic Children’s Home, where she helped children with disabilities develop the skills and confidence to thrive. In 2008, the Diocese of Covington’s Messenger recognized her for more than 20 years of service on the Inclusive Education Committee, highlighting her philosophy that students learn differently, not less. Even in retirement, she remained dedicated to her vocation through a life of prayer and faithful presence.
Wherever Sister Mary Francis was, she always reflected God’s love through her compassion, joyful spirit and unwavering commitment to those most in need.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Friday, July 3, at St. Agnes Church in Fort Wright, KY. Visitation begins at 10 a.m., followed by a tribute service at 11 a.m.
To make a donation in memory of Sister Mary Francis, please click here.
Funeral Mass Livestream: https://boxcast.tv/view/mass-of-christian-burial-sr-mary-francis-dirr-snd-e4lnb4smu8ohyga1zpkw
