A Heartfelt Legacy to Encourage Faith and Learning: Joanne’s Story
To those who knew her, Joanne Keenan McDevitt had a zeal for life and was a joy to be around. Although Joanne and her husband, Robert McDevitt, never had children of their own, they were deeply engaged with their extended family and friends.
Her nephew, Gregory Keenan, shared, “Aunt Joanne was like a second mom to us. She would take us on special adventures to celebrate our birthdays, and she had a unique knack for making all things fun, whether it was a family vacation or mundane everyday tasks.”
Joanne generously shared her abundant talents and giving heart. She was deeply committed to her faith, demonstrating it through practical acts of service, including volunteering regularly at her church and caring for others wherever she went.
As a dedicated teacher in the Chicago Public School system for 28 years, Joanne adored music and loved playing the piano for her students and family. She was also an avid Scrabble player who enjoyed long games with friends and continued playing well into her nineties.
A Love for Education Begins
Joanne attended Notre Dame High School for Girls in Chicago, where her love for learning first blossomed. This passion for education remained a guiding force throughout her teaching career and ultimately culminated in her legacy gift after a lifetime of involvement with the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.
Her nephew, Kevin McDevitt, reflected, “Joanne loved life and helping others, and as a lifelong educator she provided a way for the Sisters to continue teaching and helping people.”
He continued, “She always cared about people and put others before herself, so I can see how the Sisters’ mission—educating for life and having hearts as wide as the world—matched how Joanne lived her life.”
Her Legacy Will Remain
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur have dedicated their lives to educating individuals in both faith and academics, a dual ministry that deeply resonated with Joanne.
Her heartfelt legacy will help advance the Sisters’ mission of making God’s goodness known and sharing God’s love with people around the world for generations to come.