Sister Mary Jayne Daly, RSM
Sister Mary Jayne Daly, RSM, born May 6, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully August 24, 2026 in the presence of her family and those closest to her, bringing to a close an extraordinary life devoted to faith, education, service, and improving the lives of others.
Sister Mary Jayne was the beloved daughter of the late Rose nee Kelly & Alexander “Bud” Daly. Cherished sister of Maureen (the late William) Geimer, & the late James (La Donna) Daly. She was a proud aunt, family member, dear friend and will be missed by her religious sisters, colleagues, and generations of students.
Sister Mary Jayne began her religious vocation as a Sister of Mercy in 1960. She earned her teaching degree from St. Xavier College and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Illinois. For more than 48 years, Sister dedicated herself to educating and caring for children and families in some of Chicago’s most underserved communities. She began as a teacher and later served as Principal of Resurrection School on Chicago’s Near West Side. In 1988, she joined St. James Parish on Chicago’s Near South Side, managing its Senior Social Care Program and assisting more than 300 elderly parishioners. In 1992, she returned to teaching at St. James Catholic School, where she built a culture of academic achievement, faith, and community involvement. Under her leadership, St. James became affectionately known as “The Best Little School in Chicago”. She later continued her mission at St. Malachy’s School before retiring in 2015.
Sister Mary Jayne lived a life defined by faith, service, and profound love for children and community. Her legacy lives on in the thousands of lives she touched-the children she educated, the elderly she cared for, the families she supported, and the generations of students who will carry her lessons forward. (Lovingly composed by Sister Mary Jayne’s nephew Jim Daly)
Prayer Service and Visitation Wednesday September 2nd, 9:00 am until 10:15 am at Mercy Hall, Illinois Room, 10044 S. Central Park in Chicago.
Mass of Christian Burial following at 10:30 at Mercy Chapel.
Inurnment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Sisters of Mercy, 10024 S. Central Park, Chicago, IL 60655 would be greatly appreciated.