Sister Rita Elizabeth Derricks, C.S.J., a Sister of St. Joseph, Brentwood, for 69 years, died June 17.

After graduating from The Mary Louis Academy in Jamaica Estates, she entered the congregation in 1949 from Resurrection- Ascension, Rego Park.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from St. John’s University, Jamaica, and a master’s degree in American History from Manhattan College.

Formerly known as Sister Mary Elizabeth, she ministered in education on both the elementary and junior high school level.

In 1973, she was transferred to Our Lady of the Snows parish, North Floral Park, where she lived and ministered both in the school setting and doing parish work for 45 years.

She received an award for 20 years as an educator in Our Lady of the Snows School in 1993 and Brooklyn diocesan awards for 25, 30 and 40 years as a religious education teacher.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on June 20 at Our Lady of the Snows. Interment followed in Calvary Cemetery, Brentwood.