The Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Canada is saddened to announce the death of Sister Teresita McInally at Joseph Brant Hospital, Burlington on Sunday August 9, 2026 in her 81st year as a Sister of St. Joseph.
Sister Teresita was born in Hamilton, July 14, 1927, the daughter of the late John and Emma (Beal) McInally. Sister was predeceased by her sister, Evelyn. She will be remembered with love by her cousin Diane Walsh and daughter Monica, and by her religious family.
Sister Teresita lived each day of her life fully. She entered the congregation in 1945, a woman of deep faith, determination, energy, compassion and humility. Throughout her years of religious life, she never lost her sense of humour nor her loyalty to the Toronto Blue Jays.
Sister Teresita loved both learning and teaching. In her 35 years as an educator, she taught in Hamilton, Arthur and Burlington. She started as a teacher and moved from the classroom to become a Principal. Her professionalism, organizational skills and her compassion impacted many colleagues and students. She is remembered with admiration and respect.
Upon retiring from education, Sister moved to St. Mary’s Hospital in Kitchener as a Local Leader where she coordinated the Hamilton CSJ Companion Program. In 1989 she was elected as the General Superior of the Congregation and ministered in this role for 10 years. She served as the President and Chair of the St. Joseph’s Health System and was on the Boards of St. Joseph’s Hospital, Hamilton, St Mary’s General Hospital, Kitchener and the International Outreach Program.
In 2006, Sister began her ministry to St. Josph’s Lifecare in Brantford and in 2008 she took over the “Baby Room Program” at St Joseph’ s Hospital, Hamilton. Sister Teresita was the recipient of the St. Joseph’s Hospital Mission Legacy Award, a Doctor of Laws, (honoris causa) from McMaster University, as well as et Pro Ecclessia et Pontifice Cross Pontifical Medal, all for her contributions to Healthcare.
She moved to Tansley Woods, Burlington in January 2020 and was an active member of the residence. She continued her ministry to St. Joseph’s Lifecare, Brantford as well as the “Baby Room Program” until recently.
Visitation will take place at P.X. Dermody Funeral Home, 796 Upper Gage Ave. Hamilton, on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 2:30-7:00pm.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Rosary Parish, 287 Plains Rd. E. Burlington, ON., on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 11:00 am. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Burlington, will follow. Expressions of sympathy or donations to the works of the Congregation in memory of Sister Teresita may be sent to the Sisters of St. Joseph, 302-911 Golf Links Road, Ancaster, Ontario, L9K1H9 or www.csjcanada.org and click on donate
