Sister Ellen Mary Looby

Sister Ellen Mary of Jesus was born in Ogdensburg on Dec. 25, 1940, the daughter of Clarence J. and Helen (Fairfield) Looby. Following graduation from St. Mary’s Academy in Ogdensburg, Sister entered the Carmelite Monastery in Saranac Lake on Jan. 6, 1959, and made her profession of vows on Oct. 15, 1960. In 1998 she moved with her Carmelite community to the mid-Hudson Valley to become part of the new community of Carmelite nuns at Beacon.

Sister Ellen Mary had an artist’s eye for color and beauty. Throughout her Carmelite life she used her creative gifts in needlework, calligraphy and creative design, generously contributing time and talent to the various community mailings by which the sisters share the life of Carmel with family and friends. Sister was an avid reader undaunted by large volumes; she enjoyed poetry, composing haikus, playing the melodica and planning liturgies. She took delight in the variety of birds that fed at her window. Sister Ellen Mary kept informed about current events, praying steadfastly for the needs of the Church and our country. Her kind, gentle presence is deeply missed.

Sister Ellen Mary is survived by three brothers: Thomas (Joan) Looby, the Rev. John J. Looby of the Ogdensburg Diocese, and Philip (Barbara) Looby; two sisters: Margaret (Wayne) Randall and Sister Mary Elizabeth, GNSH; and many nieces and nephews.

All services will be private. The Rev. Christopher J. Looby, nephew of Sister Ellen Mary, will preside. Burial will be in St. Joachim Cemetery, Beacon.

To send a personal condolence, please visit www.riverviewbyhalvey.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Patrick J. Halvey of Riverview Funeral Home by Halvey, LLC.