Bernadette Newton, CSJ

Bernadette Newton, CSJ 

Bernadette Newton, CSJ was a devoted family member, a wonderfully creative and passionate teacher, a generous hostess, a life-long learner, and a woman who went out of her way to be kind. She was born in Eau Claire, WI, on December 14, 1932, to Lyman and Evelyn (Claflin) Newton, and died on February 2, 2026, at Carondelet Village in St. Paul. Bernadette joined the community of the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1953, where she was given the name Mary Bernadette. She earned a BA in Elementary Education from St. Catherine University (1967), and an MA in Language Arts and Elementary Administration from the University of Minnesota (1985). Bernadette was first missioned to teach elementary education (1961-80) at Blessed Sacrament, St. John, and Holy Spirit in St. Paul; South Parks in Minneapolis; St. Joseph, St. Theresa and Holy Trinity in Hawaii. She loved her students and saw each one as unique, gifted and holy. This intentionality and care led her to spend nearly 20 years at the University of St. Thomas, teaching and training future teachers (1984-2003). In addition to her time at UST, she also dedicated ten years as an adjunct faculty member at St. Catherine University (2003-13). Bernadette always stood up for what she believed, especially when trying to model, in her words, “a life that people recognize as good and holy.” Her expansive view of the Divine, listening heart, and twinkle in her eye will be missed by all who loved her. 

Bernadette is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Norma Sather, and brothers Vernon, Eugene, Lyman Jr., and Bernard. She is survived by her brother Ken; nieces, nephews, grandnieces and nephews, many dear friends, colleagues, and Sisters of St. Joseph and Consociates, St. Paul Province. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, February 12, at 11:00 AM, in Our Lady of the Presentation Chapel, 1884 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul. A green burial took place on Thursday, February 5th, at Resurrection Cemetery in Mendota Heights, MN. Memorials preferred to the Sisters of St. Joseph retirement fund. 

Dear Bernadette, rest in love and peace. 

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