The Wheaton Franciscan Sisters invite your prayers for

SISTER PATRICIA IRR

 

Sr. Patricia Irr, our beloved Wheaton Franciscan Sister, breathed herself fully into divine infinity, our source and sustenance, on April 14, 2023. Her life of 88 earth years was a prophetic blessing to and among all who encountered her. May we all continue to be blessed by her presence and our memories of her.

She was born September 25, 1935 in Buffalo, New York, to Mary Francis and Eugene Harry Irr, and baptized and confirmed in Buffalo, New York. She was one among four siblings (all now deceased). Sister Pat was educated in Buffalo, New York in elementary and secondary schools and college. She received a master in science from Saint Bonaventure University in Olean, New York and a masters in pastoral studies at Loyola University in Chicago, Illinois.

She wrote that, “I grew up in a devoted family. We celebrated our faith with liturgy, family

togetherness, and good food. As a child, I always knew that I wanted to teach children. I was drawn to my high school teachers, the Stella Niagara Franciscans, who were excellent educators. I joined them right after high school. After many good years of teaching and formation work, I came to Chicago to participate in a spiritual direction formation program. After a year back in New York I returned to Chicago as a mentor to international priests and religious at The Institute for Spiritual Leadership. I served there for 19 years. This is where I met the Wheaton Franciscans and grew to love their spirit. After months of discernment, reflection, and prayer, I began the process of transferring into the Wheaton Franciscans.

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As a member of the Wheaton Franciscan Sisters, Sr. Pat embraced her love of spiritual direction ministry and became a beloved part of the Tau Center staff. Even with her latest illness she remained faithfully present among the many women and men she companioned in and with Franciscan love.

Whoever shared life and love with Pat, shall always feel blessed by her love and beloved memory. We are grateful she is one among us.

“Live on Sister!”