Sr. Deborah Harmeling, OSB

Sister Deborah Harmeling was born on December 24, 1946 to George O.and Ella Mary (Holt) Harmeling, and given the name Mary Jo.  She was the older of two children; her brother George followed.

Mary Jo entered St. Walburg Monastery in 1964 and became a novice in 1965, receiving the name Deborah. First profession followed in 1966, perpetual in 1972, silver jubilee in 1991 and golden in 2016.

Sr. Deborah received her BA in Secondary Education and History at Thomas More College in 1970 and her MS in Library Science from the University of Kentucky in 1973. She taught at Blessed Sacrament School, Villa Madonna Academy, and No. Ky. UK Extension, and served as librarian at Thomas More College (now University) and then for 28 years as librarian at the Athenaeum of Ohio. She served on the formation team at the Athenaeum, as development/communication director and archives oversight at St Walburg Monastery.

Deborah was a skilled writer and a voracious reader. The Word flourished in her words as she composed collecting prayers for the Liturgy of the Hours, articles for Leaven and other publications. At home in any library, she tapped sources far and wide.

The medieval world long held Deborah’s interest, whether it be Benedictine saints, doctors of the Church, or dragons. She loved dragons, stuffed or ceramic, fierce or funny. She frowned if someone spoke ill of them. Deborah loved cats nearly as much. Cheddar and Chutney were familiar names to the sisters.

Deborah was asked once what she valued about community life. Her answer: “Community life makes me a better and more open person. Community life constantly challenges me to grow and look beyond myself and my own interests. Community life has taught me to value collaboration and to let others help me create and discern. The women of this community have shown me how to be gracious, generous, open-handed and supportive.”

Deborah is preceded in death by her parents George and Ella Harmeling. She is survived by her brother, George W. Harmeling, Memphis, TN, friends and the Benedictine community.

Vigil service will be held at 7:00 pm, Sunday, September 7, followed by visitation until 9:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 5:00 pm, September 8. All Services will be held at St. Walburg Monastery.

Memorials are suggested to St. Walburg Monastery, 2500 Amsterdam Rd., Villa Hills, KY 41017; www.stwalburg.org   Online condolences to: www.linnemannfuneralhomes.com