Sister Joan Ann Dolan, CSJ, formerly known as Sister Joan Gabriel, a Sister of St. Joseph for 71 years, died on April 13.

She entered the congregation from her home parish of St. Anthony, Greenpoint.

Sister Joan earned her BS in Social Studies from St. John’s University in 1963, her MS in Religious Studies from Manhattan College in 1971,
and her MS in School Counseling from St. John’s University in 1984.

Her ministries included St. Michael, Flushing (1952-60), St. Mel, Flushing (1960-68), Bishop Kearney HS, Bensonhurst (1968-69), Queen of All Saints Diocesan HS, Fort Greene (1969-73), Queen of All Saints, Fort Greene (1973-75), Bishop Kearney HS (1975-1980), The Mary Louis Academy HS, Jamaica Estates (1980-2009).

Sister Joan had a deep relationship with a loving God that she nourished through prayer and contemplation. She was a quick-witted delight who was full of joy and never without a smile. She was always relating to people through her warmth and genuine care for all those she encountered.

Her wake and Mass of Christian Burial took place in Sacred Heart Chapel, Brentwood, Long Island on April 19. Sister Joan requested to be cremated. Her burial will take place at a later date.