Sister Mary Elizabeth Kelly, CSJ (Sister Elizabeth Maura), a Sister of St. Joseph for 71 years, died Aug. 16, 2023, while residing at Stella Maris Convent, Rockaway Park. She was 88 years old. 

Liz, as she was known to everyone, grew up in a devoted Irish family. 

She attended St. Patrick’s School, Long Island City, and the Sisters of St. Joseph’s Juniorate. 

In 1952, Liz entered the Sisters of St. Joseph. 

From 1954 to 1970, she shared her talents teaching on the elementary level in St. Francis Xavier (Brooklyn), Holy Name of Mary (Valley Stream), St. Anthony of Padua (Brooklyn), St. Ann’s (Queens), and Immaculate Heart of Mary (Brooklyn). 

She was a dedicated administrator, mentor, and Sister of St. Joseph. 

During these years, Sister Liz continued her education, earning a BA in English from St. Joseph’s College and advanced degrees in English from Fordham University and Brooklyn College, as well as advanced degrees in administration from SUNY and Fordham University. 

In 1970, Sister Liz returned to Immaculate Heart of Mary as their principal, followed by 11 years teaching English at Bishop Kearney High School. 

That was followed by 20 years of serving as principal at St. Rose of Lima (Brooklyn) and Holy Cross Elementary/ Flatbush Catholic Academy (Brooklyn). In 2017, Liz retired to Stella Maris Convent, where her positive attitude and faithful dedication to the rosary inspired all who knew her. 

Respecting Sister Liz’s last wishes, her Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church on Aug. 20, 2023, by Father Joseph Fonti. 

Father Ilyas Gill concelebrated, Deacon Antonio Gonzalez was the Deacon of the Word, and Deacon James Noble was Deacon of the Altar. 

Sister Liz’s burial followed in Calvary Cemetery, Brentwood, New York.