Sister Mary Francis Dirr

Mary Elizabeth Dirr was born on January 9,1922, in Cheviot, Ohio, the youngest surviving daughter of Fredrick and Ida (Eilers) Dirr. She grew up in a close-knit, faith-filled family as the second youngest child.

Mary Elizabeth received her early education at St. Martin Elementary School and graduated from Seton High School in Price Hill, Ohio. Following high school, she worked at G & G Manufacturing Company. Although she enjoyed social gatherings, dancing, and time with her family, she felt a deeper calling to religious life.

On September 8, 1943, at the age of 21, she entered the Sisters of Notre Dame of Covington, Kentucky, where her older sister, Sister Mary Lelia, was already a member. Sister Mary Francis professed her vows on August 13, 1946, beginning a lifelong dedication to serving others, especially children with special needs - a ministry she found deeply rewarding.

To support her work, Sister Mary Francis pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Villa Madonna College (now Thomas More University); certification in Occupational Therapy from the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, Minnesota; and a Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Kentucky.

Her ministry was marked by a profound commitment to education and care. She served as a teacher and principal in the Dioceses of Covington, Kentucky, and Birmingham, Alabama; and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Ohio. She also served as administrator of the former St. Joseph Children’s Home in Cold Spring and dedicated thirteen years to the Redwood School and Rehabilitation Center, where her compassion and dedication enriched countless lives.

In her later years, Sister Mary Francis embraced a life of quiet reflection and prayer. She cherished the companionship of her fellow sisters and maintained meaningful connections with her family, former students, and friends. At her death at 104, she was the oldest Sister of Notre Dame in the United States of America.

Sister was proceeded in death by her parents and siblings, Matthew, Amelia, Ellsworth, Laurence, Martha, Angela, Sister Mary Lelia, SND, Father Wilfred, Cecilia, Robert, Richard, Rosalia, and Aloysius. Sister leaves behind many devoted nieces and nephews.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM on Friday, July 3, 2026, at St. Agnes Church, Ft. Wright, Kentucky. The Rite of Remembrance Service will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial. Interment in the convent cemetery will follow the Mass.

Memorials are suggested to The Sisters of Notre Dame, Covington, Kentucky.