As you walk down the first floor main hallway toward the north elevator, across from the hallway gallery that chronicles the Daughters of Wisdom’s legacy since the founding of St. Charles Hospital in Port Jefferson, NY, you’ll discover a newly dedicated sacred space honoring the late Sr. Ann Gray, DW. What was once a simple water fountain alcove has been beautifully transformed into a memorial window, displaying a crucifix, a portrait of Sr. Ann, the original hospital stamp, and a statue of Our Lady of Wisdom. This statue, which originally belonged to Sr. Ann’s mother, later became a treasured keepsake in Sr. Ann Gray’s private space and now serves as a meaningful part of the memorial.

Just as water once flowed from that fountain, Sr. Ann's memory will continue to inspire others. Her unwavering faith in the leadership of St. Charles Hospital—and in its enduring ability to serve the community's healthcare needs—remains a wellspring for the future.

Next to the picture window, a plaque highlights Sr. Ann's lasting impact on the hospital, recognizing her service on the St. Charles Hospital Foundation Board, her leadership as Chair of the Mission and Ministry Committee, and her role as a former member of the Catholic Health and St. Charles Hospital Board of Trustees.

On Friday, April 24, 2026, hospital administrators, board and committee members, staff, volunteers, and sisters gathered for a heartfelt dedication ceremony. St. Charles Hospital President James O'Connor opened the event by reflecting on his longstanding and spirited partnership with Sr. Ann, highlighting her devoted service on hospital boards and committees. The program continued with a prayer and portrait blessing led by hospital chaplain Fr. Joseph Francis, ORM Cap. In his prayer, he said, “Lord God, we gather here today to bless this beautiful portrait of Sr. Ann, who dedicated her life to Your service. We contemplate this image as a reminder of her witness to the Gospel and her love of Your people. We ask You to bless and sanctify this portrait of Sr. Ann, who consecrated her life to Your service. …may her image inspire us to do the same and to carry the fragrance of Christ into the world.” Afterward, the memorial window received a special blessing with holy water from Sr. Edith Menegus, OSU, BCC & Director of Pastoral Care. Daughters of Wisdom Delegation Leader Sr. Catherine Sheehan, DW, expressed gratitude to St. Charles Hospital for hosting the event and shared touching words: “St. Charles Hospital, its mission, and its people held an incredibly special place in Sr. Ann’s heart. As you experienced, if Sr. Ann stood with you, it was genuine and unwavering. One of Sr. Ann’s favorite blessings was a Gaelic one – Deep Peace. Sr. Ann is experiencing the blessing of deep peace now and extends to all who continue the mission of St. Charles Hospital that blessing, ‘… Moon and stars pour their healing light on you, Deep peace of Christ, … the light of the world to you.’”

Following the ceremony, participants gathered for a luncheon and fellowship, thoughtfully organized by Lisa Mulvey, Executive Director of the St. Charles Foundation. As guests enjoyed the meal and conversation, a moving presentation chronicled Sr. Ann Gray’s remarkable 70-year journey as a Daughter of Wisdom, leaving a lasting impression of her legacy and devotion.

Honoring Sr. Ann Gray: A Sacred Memorial Dedication at St. Charles Hospital