Sister Catherine Elizabeth Williams, CSJ, 93, died Thursday, November 4, 2021 in the 64th year of her religious life as a Sisters of St. Joseph. The daughter of Morgan and Elizabeth Kroeger Williams, Sister Catherine entered the Congregation from Annunciation parish in Pittsburgh and served two years as a teacher at St. Bede and St. James in the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
While at Carlow College in the early 1960s, Sister Catherine selected a Bachelor of Arts minor in Medical Records. This choice set her on course to high-level positions in record-keeping at hospitals where she excelled in accuracy, efficiency and professionalism. Sister Catherine served as Assistant Director of the Medical Records Department at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C., from 1965-67 and, subsequently, as the hospital’s Director of the Medical Records from 1967-70. During her tenure at the hospital, she was simultaneously earning her MBA in Data Processing Management at Georgetown University.
In 1970, Sister Catherine returned to the Pittsburgh area and began a 29-year ministry at Sewickley Valley Hospital, first as Director of the Medical Records Department, and then as a Staff Assistant in Administration. Known for her quick wit, independence and compassion for those in need, Sister Catherine returned in 2008 to Baden where she volunteered as a caregiver and treasurer for the Motherhouse community.
Sister Catherine is survived by nieces, grandnieces and grandnephews, and the Associates and Sisters of St. Joseph. The Sisters are grateful to the Supportive Living staff at the Motherhouse for their care of Sister Catherine. Viewing will only occur at the Prayer Vigil from 6 to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, November 8 at which time those gathered will pray the rosary. Mass of Christian burial will be offered Tuesday, November 9 at 3 p.m. in the Motherhouse Chapel. Burial will follow in the Sisters’ Cemetery on the Motherhouse grounds. All outside guests are required to show proof of vaccination. All visitors who enter the Motherhouse are required to wear masks.
Donations in the name of Sister Catherine may be sent to the Sisters of St. Joseph Memorial Fund, Development Office, 1020 State St., Baden, PA, 15005.