Moireen Kelly, OSB
September 10, 1914 – October 20, 2010
With gratitude and love, we remember Sister Moireen Kelly, OSB, who entered eternal life on October 20, 2010, at the age of 96. A founding member of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery in Bismarck, North Dakota, Sister Moireen devoted 75 years to the Benedictine way of life, embodying faith, service, and a deep love for God and music.
Born as Gertrude Kelly in Mandan, North Dakota, on September 10, 1914, she was the eldest of six children of John and Rose (Boehm) Kelly, a family deeply rooted in the Catholic faith. Her father worked on the railroad, and her early years were marked by a love for family, music, and the rhythm of life shaped by her parents' example. At just 19 years old, she entered Saint Benedict’s Monastery in St. Joseph, Minnesota, where she embraced her new name, Moireen, and began her journey as a Benedictine Sister, professing her vows on July 11, 1935.
Sister Moireen answered the call to help establish a new monastic community in the Diocese of Bismarck, North Dakota. She became one of the founding members of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Priory, now Annunciation Monastery.
Music was the great tapestry of Sister Moireen’s life. A gifted teacher and musician, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1947 and dedicated herself to teaching music, directing choirs, and serving as an organist across the Diocese of Bismarck. From classrooms and piano studios to church choirs, she inspired countless individuals, making a lasting impact on her students and parishioners alike. Her years of ministry at Saint Mary’s in Bismarck, Saint Joseph’s in Mandan, and Saint Patrick’s in Dickinson were filled with joyful dedication to sharing her passion for music as a form of prayer and connection to God.
In 1959, Sister Moireen transitioned into a new role as procurator for Annunciation Monastery. With characteristic humility and obedience, she took on the unexpected task of overseeing the monastery's practical needs, ensuring it was furnished and functional for the sisters and their ministries. Despite the demands of this role, she remained steadfast in her commitment to community prayer, music, and the Benedictine charism.
For over three decades, Sister Moireen enriched lives as a faculty member at the University of Mary, Bismarck, and a private piano instructor, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s musical landscape. Piano teachers across the state held her in high regard, and was an active member of local, state, and national music teacher associations. She served as the monastery’s organist until her retirement in 2007, always bringing beauty and reverence to liturgical celebrations.
Sister Moireen will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her gift for storytelling, and her unwavering dedication to living the Benedictine motto, Ora et Labora—prayer and work—with joy and fidelity. Her love for family, friends, and community was evident in her warm and engaging presence, and her legacy of faith and music will continue to inspire.
In her own words, “Every day, to the best of my ability, I try to do ordinary things extraordinarily well.” Sister Moireen lived this credo fully, and now, we trust, she sings eternally in the presence of God.
Rest in peace, Sister Moireen. You have done all things extraordinarily well.
Tribute prepared by Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck.