Harriet Hamilton, CSJP (1943-2024)

Harriet Ann Hamilton was born on December 9, 1943, in Newark, New Jersey, to William John Hamilton and Margaret Veronica (Scully) Hamilton. She was the youngest of six children. It was within this close-knit family that Sister Harriet grew in faith and in caring for others.

Sister Harriet first encountered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace at St. James Hospital in Newark, New Jersey. The sisters introduced her to all the ministries in which the community was involved. She found the sisters to be “an impressive bunch, so human and down to earth.” Having loved being part of a big family, Sister Harriet was further drawn to “being part of [this] loving, prayerful community.” She was received as a novice in 1964 and professed final vows in 1976.

Sister Harriet graduated with an Associate of Arts degree from Archangel College, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, in 1966. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Fairleigh Dickenson University, Teaneck, New Jersey, in 1973. In 2002 she received an honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters, from New Jersey City University, Jersey City, New Jersey, for her commitment and leadership to bring about positive changes in the lives of people.

Sister Harriet taught at St. Rose of Lima School, Hanover, New Jersey. She served as a housemother at St. Joseph Village, Rockleigh, New Jersey, and as a social worker for unwed mothers at Catholic Charities, Newark, New Jersey. Beginning in 1977, she generously responded to the invitation to serve in a variety of the Congregation’s sponsored ministries. She was the Director of Personnel at St. Joseph’s School for the Blind, Assistant Director of the Nurturing Place at St. Joseph’s Home, Executive Director of the York Street Project, and the Director of St. Mary’s Residence, all located in Jersey City, New Jersey.

In the early 1990s, Sister Harriet became interested in wholistic living and wellness. She pursued an intensive program of study at Lourdes Wellness Center in Collinswood, New Jersey, and became a certified massage therapist and Reiki practitioner.

Sister Harriet Hamilton died on October 7, 2024, at St. Michael Villa in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. She was predeceased by her brothers, John, Richard, William, and Robert Hamilton. She is survived by her sister Margaret “Peggy” McDermott as well as many nieces and nephews.

A combined wake service and Liturgy of Christian Burial was held on October 19, 2024, at St. Michael Villa followed by burial at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington, New Jersey.

Sister Harriet will be missed for her discerning heart and mind, her love of all God’s creation, and her love of dancing.