obit-sr-maura-mcelligott.jpgSister Maura McElligott, OP, age 96, died March 3 at the Dominican Sisters Motherhouse, Springfield.

Sister Maura was the third child born to James and Catherine (Halpin) McElligott in Chicago. She joined the Dominican Sisters in 1934.

Sister Maura served many years of ministry in hospital work, in many different geographical areas and was instrumental in the work of racial integration and forming long-term ties with the variety of populations she served. She was appointed the first administrator of St. Dominic’s Hospital in Jackson, Miss., and later became the director of St. Dominic’s School of Nursing. At age 72 she earned her certification in pastoral care and thereafter served for 10 years in that capacity at St. Mary Hospital in Rogers, Ark., before retiring.

Sister Maura was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Catherine, Eileen and Joan; and brothers James and Andrew. She is survived by her sisters Therese Naughton and Helen Jackson, several nieces and nephews and her Dominican sisters with whom she lived and ministered for 74 years.

The funeral Mass was held March 6 at Sacred Heart Convent Motherhouse, with Father Peter Witchousky, OP, presiding. Final commendation and burial was March 7 at Calvary Cemetery, Springfield. 

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