Sister Judine Mayerle, a cherished member of the St. Scholastica Monastery community, passed away on September 5, 2025, at the age of 84. Her death, which occurred at the Benedictine Living Community in Duluth, marks the end of an inspiring life dedicated to education and spiritual guidance over her 64 years of consecrated service.
Born Barbara Jean Mayerle on May 23, 1941, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, she grew up in Bovey before joining St. Scholastica Priory, where she adopted the name Judine. Over her lifetime, Sister Judine earned advanced degrees in English, Motion Picture History, and Mass Communication, sharing her knowledge as a professor at various universities.
Legacy of Education and Community Engagement
Sister Judine’s commitment to education extended beyond the classroom. Upon returning to Duluth, she produced the film Sing a New Song, which highlighted the essence of community life within the monastery. Her contributions to the institution included strategic planning, reflecting her belief that “Clearly the plans God has for us are so much better than what we might design for ourselves.” This perspective illustrated her deep spiritual conviction and the impact she had on those around her.
In addition to her many accomplishments, Sister Judine is remembered for her warmth and kindness. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Frances Mayerle, and her brother, Mark. She is survived by her siblings Judith (Allan) Burroughs, James (Kristin), and Thomas (Susan), as well as the Sisters of St. Scholastica Monastery, who will honor her memory.
Final Arrangements and Tributes
A wake will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 9:45 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at the Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person, accessible at https://youtu.be/tLVcBMb8_Sw. Sister Judine will be interred at Gethsemane Cemetery, where she will rest alongside her fellow Sisters.
Arrangements for the services have been entrusted to Dougherty Funeral Home, which is coordinating the final tributes to celebrate Sister Judine Mayerle’s remarkable life and legacy. Her contributions to education and her unwavering faith will continue to inspire many in the community she served so passionately.