Sister Kathleen Thornton, R.S.M.

Gorham – Sister Kathleen (Miriam Cecilia) Thornton, R.S.M., 88 yrs., died peacefully on November 12, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Convent, Biddeford, with her Sisters in community at her side.

Born in Worchester, M.A., she was the daughter of George and Agnes Morrison Thornton. After graduating from Keene High School in Keene, N.H., she entered the Sisters of Mercy, Portland in 1954, from St. Bernard’s Parish in Keene. She began her study of religious life and simultaneously commenced higher education at St. Joseph’s College, Standish, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree. A talented musician and educator, Sr. Kathleen also pursued studies at Pius X School of Music N.Y., and Boston University.

After several years of elementary school teaching, she became the Music Supervisor for parochial schools in Portland, South Portland and Westbrook. She held this position with great success as with her love of children and music shone forth. Sister Kathleen also gave private piano lessons to children as well as adults. For years, twice a year the Motherhouse Auditorium was the site of the students piano recitals, performed with confidence they showed off their musical talents to family and friends. After the recital, the children gathered to enjoy special refreshments to their delight. Sister Kathleen brought inspiration, energy and enthusiasm to her ministry in the arts! She always looked forward to singing in the Portland Symphony Choir, especially during the MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS performances.

Sister Kathleen’s creative spirit made her a composer of music, most notable her CONCERTO IN G MINOR, a piano composition for solo instrument. She had an avid love for writing and a unique artistry in calligraphy and design. In addition to possessing three copyrights for musical works, she had one copyright for an original watercolor.

During her years in retirement, Sister Kathleen devoted her time to prayer and visitations, while living at Deering Pavilion, Frances Warde Convent, St. Joseph’s Convent, Biddeford or Gorham House, Gorham. She always enjoyed her gatherings with her religious community and friends.

This is an excerpt from her writing,
The Choice:
I set my foot on a higher plane,
My hand reached up to touch the sky;
If I could not win the race to glory,
At least I’d place my bet and try!

Sister Kathleen was predeceased by her parents; her brother, George; and her brother-in-law, Fred. She is survived by her sister, Kathryn Coray, MA.; three nephews and their families; her dear friend, Sister Patricia Williams as well as her Sisters in religion.

A time of prayer and visiting will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 9:15am at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 307 Congress Street, Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10am at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception with a burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery, South Portland. To view a livestream of the Mass, please visit www.facebook.com/ConroyTullyWalker. A reception will be at the Maine Elks Lodge #188, 1945 Congress Street, Portland, following the Mass. Arrangements are under the direction of the new Conroy-Tully Walker Cremation, Funeral & Gathering Center, 300 Allen Avenue, Portland.

Memorial donations may be made in her name to: The Retirement Fund of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, 966 Riverside St., Portland, ME 04103; or St. Joseph’s College Tuition Fund, 278 Whites Bridge Road, Standish, ME 04084