Many years ago, a brother of Sister Kathleen Quinn, PHJC, married Ross Johnson’s sister. Ross, who lived in Whiting, Indiana, and Sister Kathleen—one of the founding Sisters of Sojourner Truth House (STH)—became good friends. When she lived at St. Catherine’s Convent in East Chicago, Ross was a frequent visitor. He was welcomed at holiday parties, dinners, birthdays, and other celebrations by Sister Kathleen and the other Poor Handmaid Sisters. Over time, Ross became part of their PHJC family, and their love for STH fueled his desire to become a generous supporter, too.
Sadly, Ross passed away in June 2023 at the age of 89. His estate left a $39,000 gift for Sister Kathleen, and she chose to honor Ross’s love for helping women and children experiencing homelessness by donating her gift to STH.
“Ross was a simple, wonderful person, and a good friend of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ,” Sister Kathleen recalled when she presented her check to a small group assembled at STH.