December 14, 2020

OBITUARY: Sister Elizabeth Dowd, OSU

REGIONAL

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – Ursuline Sister Elizabeth (Beth) Dowd, died Dec. 11. She was a resident of United Hebrew Center in New Rochelle.

Born in Holyoke in 1934 to Clare and James Dowd, she entered the Ursuline Novitiate in 1956 and professed first vows in 1959.

She graduated from the College of New Rochelle and received a master of arts degree and a master of music degree from The Catholic University of America, and teaching certificates in Kodaly, Kindermusik, and Musikgarten from the Kodaly Institute.

She served as a teacher and choral director at Ursuline Academy in Springfield; Ursuline Academy in Bethesda, Md.; the Academy of Mount St. Ursula, St. Athanasius School, and St. Philip Neri School in the Bronx; as well as New Rochelle Catholic Elementary School. She was also active in campus ministry at the College of New Rochelle and music ministry at Blessed Sacrament Parish in New Rochelle.

Known and recognized locally, nationally and internationally as a music educator, she brought music to generations of children and families. In 1994 she founded Songcatchers, a nonprofit organization dedicated to its mission of “Reaching for Peace Through Music” by providing children with affordable access to high quality music education, development, and enrichment. 

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her siblings Ursuline Sister Mary Dowd, Ann Connolly, Clare Hayes, and David, James and John Dowd.

She is survived by many nieces and nephews, and by her Ursuline Community.

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, there will not be a wake or funeral. A private burial will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, and a Memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Ursuline Sisters Retirement Fund, 1338 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10804; or online at www.osueast.org.