Sister Hugh James Grabowska, OP

November 26, 1922 ~ January 6, 2026

Sister Hugh James Grabowska, OP of the Dominican Sisters of Hope, Newburgh, New York, died January 6, 2026, in Mt. Vernon, New York.

She was 103 years of age.

The daughter of the late John and Frances Gwiazdowska Grabowski was born November 26, 1922, in Amsterdam, New York.

Sister Hugh James entered the novitiate of the Dominican Sisters of Newburgh, New York, on August 30, 1963, made her First Profession June 23, 1965, and Final Profession July 26, 1970. Sister Hugh James attended Amsterdam School of Commerce in Amsterdam, New York. She also completed a course with the Red Cross and became a nurse's aide.

Sister Hugh James worked as administrative assistant to the President of Mount Saint Mary College and to the Treasurer.  She later worked in the finance office of the Dominican Sisters of Newburgh. After completing a sabbatical, she was sacristan and supply clerk for the convent infirmary. The ministry that Sister Hugh James enjoyed the most was prayerfully accompanying the sick and dying, faithfully remaining present throughout their final hours.

Prior to entering religious life, Sister had a career with the State Department in Washington, D.C. She volunteered in St. Thomas Parish serving as president of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, helping to bring the Gospel message to others.

Sister enjoyed visits from the dogs who came to visit the residents at Meadowview, chocolate and pizza. She could be found sitting in the garden watching the birds or in the chapel conversing with her God.

Sister Hugh James is survived by her Dominican Sisters of Hope, and her nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents John and Frances Gwiazdowska Grabowski and her siblings Alex, Alfreda, Jeanne, John, Martha, Matthew and Richard.

A celebration of Sister Hugh James' life will take place on Wednesday January 14, 2026, at the Dominican Center, in the Chapel of the Most Holy Rosary, at Mount Saint Mary College, Newburgh, NY. The viewing will take place starting at 9:15 a.m. followed by a wake service at 10:00 a.m., and Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. immediately following the liturgy. Sister will be buried in the Dominican Sisters of Hope Cemetery on the grounds of Mount Saint Mary College.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sister Hugh James' memory can be made to the Dominican Sisters of Hope Development Office located at 299 North Highland Avenue, Ossining, New York 10562.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Brooks Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Avenue, Newburgh, NY 12550.