BELMONT — It is with heartfelt sadness and deep gratitude for her life that the Sisters of Mercy announce the passing of Sister Maureen Dees on Dec. 8, 2025. Professed with the Sisters of Mercy for 80 years, Sister Maureen dedicated her life to faith, education and service and touched countless lives with her kindness, humor and unwavering commitment to others.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, at Sacred Heart Convent, Cardinal Gibbons Chapel, 103 Mercy Dr., Belmont, N.C. Viewing will be held before Mass, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. After Mass, all are invited to lunch followed by a procession at 2 p.m. to Belmont Abbey Cemetery, where Sister Maureen will be laid to rest.
The funeral Mass will be livestreamed here.
Sister Maureen was born Odessa Frances Dees on Aug. 25, 1925, in France, beginning a journey marked by both hardship and grace. She was adopted by James Frank Dees and Minnie Dees of North Carolina, and their hope was to have a long and happy life together. However, in 1930 her mother passed away and due to her father’s inability to care for her, she was placed at Nazareth Orphanage in Raleigh.
Her passion for service and learning led her to earn a bachelor’s degree from Belmont Abbey College. In 1945, she answered the call to religious life and joined the Sisters of Mercy, beginning a lifetime of service rooted in compassion and faith.
Sister Maureen’s vocation as an educator spanned several communities. She taught in many Catholic elementary schools throughout the dioceses of Charlotte and Raleigh, most notably Sacred Heart in Salisbury. Her dedication to her students extended beyond academics, as she inspired hope, curiosity and spiritual growth in every classroom she entered.
Later in her ministry, Sister Maureen brought her caring spirit to Guam, where she volunteered for two years as a social worker and nursery worker, uplifting children and families with her gentle presence and practical support.
Upon her retirement, Sister Maureen remained active in service. She volunteered at Catherine’s House in Belmont and supported her fellow Sisters of Mercy. Her commitment to helping others never waned, embodying her life’s motto: “All for Jesus through Mary.”
Sister Maureen was known for her joyful humor, quick wit and warm, welcoming smile. She found peace and delight in fishing and cherished moments spent at the beach. Her laughter and compassionate heart left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Sisters of Mercy, 101 Mercy Dr., Belmont, N.C. 28012.
McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont is in charge of the arrangements.
— Catholic News Herald