obit-sister-m-karen-okelly.jpgSister M. Karen O’Kelly, OP, died March 6 at the Dominican Sisters Motherhouse in Springfield, age 79.

Sister M. Karen was born to Hulda Larson and Patrick Joseph O’Kelly in Chicago. She joined the Dominican Sisters in 1948.

Sister M. Karen taught elementary students before becoming principal of St. Joseph School in Bradley and Our Lady of Grace School, Chicago. Later she was appointed the diocesan director of education in the Rockford Diocese. From 1989-93 she served on the Dominican Sisters General Council.

In 1993 Sister M. Karen went to Jackson, Miss., and served as assistant superintendent of Catholic schools. Since 2003 she served in community support services and as administrative assistant to the director of associates.

Sister M. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Eileen; and brothers, John, Bernard and Patrick. She is survived by her sisters Joan McLoughlin and Lillian Cummings, several nieces and nephews and her Dominican sisters with whom she lived and ministered for 61 years.

The funeral Mass was held at Sacred Heart Convent March 9, with Father Peter Witchousky, OP, presiding. Final commendation and burial was in Calvary Cemetery.

Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, Springfield, was in charge of arrangements.