Sister Ann Patrice Murnock, SSJ, age 100, of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania, died on January 8, 2025, in the 72nd year of her religious life. She was the oldest living Catholic Sister in the Erie Diocese. Born in Forest City, Pennsylvania, on December 13, 1924, Sister Ann Patrice was the daughter of the late Andrew and Mary Timko Murnock. She entered the Sisters of St. Joseph from St. Michael Parish, Forest City, PA, on March 16, 1953, and professed her final vows on August 15, 1958.
In 2024, Sister Ann Patrice was honored as a Distinguished Citizen by her hometown, Forest City, PA and was presented with a Key to the City. She was nominated by her nephew, Michael Murnock, who said, “She’s the most humble person I have ever met.” Sister Ann Patrice always maintained a strong connection to her hometown, often returning to visit family and friends. She held the distinction of being one of the longest running active subscribers to her hometown newspaper, the Forest City News.
She attended Forest City High School and graduated from Villa Maria College in Erie in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science in business education. She taught at St. Ann, St. Andrew, and St. Paul Schools in Erie, and St. Leo School in Ridgway, PA. She served as a CCD instructor in Mercer, PA and ministered in office management at Spencer Hospital in Meadville, PA. Her ministry career also included work as a financial officer for the Sisters of St. Joseph and as a senior office clerk at Saint Vincent Health Center. She retired in 2000 and resided at the Sisters of St. Joseph Community Living Center.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Michael, George and Andrew; and three sisters, Margaret Puntar, Marian Homisak and Elsie Murnock. She is survived by several nieces, nephews, as well as grand nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her religious community, the Sisters of St. Joseph.
There will be no public viewing. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph Mission & Ministries Foundation, 5031 West Ridge Road, Erie, PA, 16506-1249. The Kloecker Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
