Sister Mary Francis Dirr turned 104 in January 2026 and her life continues to be a witness of faith, service and quiet leadership.
As the oldest Sister of Notre Dame living in the U.S., she is a true pioneer of inclusive education. She spent decades advocating for children of all abilities, long before it was common or easy. Sister Francis received her master’s degree and served as a teacher and principal in many schools including St. Aloysius Orphanage and Holy Trinity Elementary (formerly Sacred Heart School). She also taught special education and worked as an occupational therapist at the Diocesan Catholic Children’s Home.
Professed August 13, 1946, Sister Francis has lived nearly eight decades of vowed religious life.
In 2008, an article from the Diocese of Covington’s Messenger Newspaper shared how she was honored for more than 20 years of service on the Inclusive Education Committee. This article highlighted Sister Francis helping schools to see that students do not lack ability, they simply learn differently. Her idea of retirement was not slowing down, it only looked like serving in a different way.
Today, she continues her ministry through being an Apostolate of Prayer in the Covington, Kentucky region. Sister Francis is faithful, joyful and continues to offer her life in prayer.
104 years and still inspiring us all!
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