A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Dec. 2 in Assisi House, Aston, Pa., for Franciscan Sister Dorothy Ann Schmitt who died Nov. 27. She was 86.

A member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia for 67 years, she entered the congregation in 1942 and professed her first vows in 1944.

Sister Dorothy Ann held a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in education from Trenton State College. She ministered primarily in education, was a reading specialist, and was a charter member of the Garden State Storytellers’ League.  In her leisure time she enjoyed reading, crocheting, doing word puzzles, and storytelling.

Sister Dorothy Ann ministered in the Diocese of Trenton for a total of 52 years. She taught in St. Anthony School, Hamilton, from 1944-1945 and from 1958-1962; Holy Angels School, Hamilton, from 1945-1953; Blessed Sacrament School, Trenton, from 1953-1958; St. Rose of Lima School, Freehold, from 1962-1964; Immaculate Conception School, Trenton, from 1972-1982, and McCorristin Catholic High School, Hamilton, from 1982-1983. 

Sister Dorothy Ann spent 21 years at St. Raphael School, Hamilton, from 1983-2004, where she was listed in the Who’s Who among American Teachers in 1996 and the recipient of the Teacher of the Year Award in 1998.

Sister Dorothy Ann also ministered in education in the Diocese of Harrisburg for eight years.

Sister Dorothy Ann Schmitt moved to Assisi House in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 2004 and served in prayer ministry until her death.

Sister Dorothy Ann is survived by her brother, Edward Schmitt, nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan family.

Burial was in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Aston. Donations in her name can be made to the Sisters of St. Francis Foundation, 609 S. Convent Road, Aston, Pa. 19014.