Saint Xavier University honors the life of Sister JoAnn Persch, RSM, who passed away on November 14, 2025, at the age of 91. A decades-long advocate for immigrants, unhoused women, and children, Sister JoAnn inspired countless students, faculty, and colleagues with her unwavering commitment to justice, human dignity, and social change.
Born in Milwaukee in 1934, Sister JoAnn joined the Sisters of Mercy after graduating from Mercy High School and devoted her life to education and service. She taught at Catholic schools across Wisconsin and Chicago and earned a Master’s Degree in Religious Education from Loyola University Chicago. Over her 73 years as a Sister of Mercy, she co-founded the Illinois Community for Displaced Immigrants and Catherine’s Caring Cause, helping asylum seekers and other vulnerable populations navigate challenging circumstances.
Sister JoAnn also played a pivotal role in advocacy and systemic change. She helped alter Illinois law to allow pastoral visits for detained immigrants and personally accompanied chaplains to detention centers. Alongside her lifelong companion, Sister Pat Murphy, RSM, she supported numerous organizations including Su Casa, Casa Notre Dame, the David Darst Center, and the Interfaith Community for Detained Immigrants. Even in her 80s, she faced arrests for her activism, demonstrating tireless courage and commitment.
Even in her final months, Sister JoAnn remained active on campus. Just weeks before her passing, she spoke to Jorge Arevalo’s Transitions class, sharing her experiences and lessons in advocacy. In June, she addressed representatives from across the Conference for Mercy Higher Education (CMHE) during SXU’s Mercy Roundtable, leaving a lasting impression on the broader Mercy education community.
SXU is grateful to have known Sister JoAnn, a woman whose faith, courage, and compassion changed the world in countless ways. Her example continues to inspire action, leadership, and service across campus and beyond.
Her wake was held November 23 at Mercy Hall, and her funeral Mass took place November 24 at St. Barnabas Church in Chicago. In lieu of flowers, donations were encouraged to Catherine’s Caring Cause or the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas.