SSA News

Sister Miriam Russell ('25)
March 29, 2005

Sister Miriam Russell, graduate of 1925, and faculty member for 66 years, died peacefully on Easter Sunday at St. Scholastica Monastery in Chicago. Over the years, she taught English and Spanish, directed physical education and sports' activities, served as dorm counselor, facilitated the program for English as a Second Language, and tutored foreign students. As a student, a teacher, and finally as a retired person, she lived over seventy years at St. Scholastica Academy.

Born and raised on a ranch in Stonewall, Colorado, Sister Miriam was a lover of the mountains and had a deep appreciation of natural beauty. A trained musician, she loved opera and classical music. A student of literature, she was well read and a gifted writer. In her early years she played sports, particularly enjoyed tennis, and was an avid follower of professional matches even during the 2004 season.

Previous to her tenure at St. Scholastica Academy, she also taught some years in Chicago, Illinois, and Tucson, Arizona. One of the last Sisters at the Academy when it closed after 111 years of operation at 615 Pike, Sister Miriam finally retired to the infirmary of St. Scholastica Monastery fourteen months ago at age 97.

A wake will be held March 30 at the St. Scholastica Monastery from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Since the chapel is already decorated, the sisters are asking that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Sr. Miriam's name. Those wishing to send a memorial donation can mail it to:

Benedictine Sisters of Chicago
c/o St. Scholastica Monastery
7430 N. Ridge Blvd.
Chicago IL 60645