May 7, 2026

Sr. Judith O’Connell, SSJ, Former Vicar for Religious Women

REGIONAL

Staff

Springfield – Sister Judith O’Connell (Martin Elizabeth), (11/4/1938), beloved member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield, died at the  Bethany Health Care Center, Framingham, May 6, 2026.

Sister was born in Springfield the daughter of William M. and Elizabeth R. (Fitzgerald) O’Connell. She entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield from Immaculate Conception Parish,

West Springfield in 1961. A graduate of the former  Cathedral High School, Springfield, she earned a B.A. degree from the College of Our Lady of the Elms, Chicopee and an M.A. in pastoral counseling from Iona College, New York.

She taught at Cathedral High School, Springfield and St. Mary School, Milford, where she also served as guidance director for a time. She ministered as assistant chaplain at Smith College, Northampton,. Sister also worked in development at Elms College. Sister Judith continued
her work as Vicar for Women Religious in the Diocese of Springfield where she served for many years. Sister also served on several boards and diocesan committees.

In addition to her sisters in community, she is survived by several close cousins. Sister was predeceased by her parents William and Elizabeth O’Connell.

All services for Sister Judith will take place in Sacred Heart Church, 395 Chestnut Street, Springfield. Sister’s funeral will take place Wednesday, May 13, 2026. She will be waked from 10:00 AM with a prayer service at 10:30 AM. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will be in Mont Marie Cemetery, Holyoke.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph, 577 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104.