Sister Joanne Toohey OP

TOOHEY, OP, Sister Joanne, of Grand Rapids was gently called home to God on June 26, 2026, at the age of 88, after 70 years of joyful and faithful Dominican religious life.

Sister Joanne was born on December 15, 1937, in Essexville, Michigan. She was the eldest of four children of John and Naomi Klingbeil Toohey. Sister Joanne was taught by the Dominican Sisters at St. John the Evangelist Parish School.  She entered the congregation in 1955 and devoted her life to prayer, study, ministry, and community.

Sister Joanne earned degrees from Aquinas College and Western Michigan University. She taught elementary students for 20 years in Michigan and New Mexico before serving in parish ministry, faith formation, Scripture study, and pastoral care, especially with adults and those who were grieving.

Known for her compassionate presence and love of God’s Word, Sister Joanne continued leading Bible study after retiring to Aquinata Hall in 2019. She also loved animals, gardening, cards, movies, puzzles, board games, and needlepoint.

Reflecting on her 70th Jubilee, Sister Joanne said, “My heart is full of gratitude for all that has been, all that is, and all that is yet to come.” Her faithful witness, generous service, warmth, and gentle spirit will be remembered with gratitude.

Sister Joanne will repose at Marywood Chapel of the Word, 111 Lakeside Dr. NE, with a Remembering Service on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 9:00 am and Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 am. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery.  Memorials in Sister Joanne’s name may be made to the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters.