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Sister Jane Dufault, S.P.

Spokane

Sr. Jane Dufault is celebrating her 100th birthday today. She was born Aurora Default on March 16, 1905, in Gaspe, Quebec.

When she was 2 years old, her mother died and she was raised by her grandmother.

On Nov. 18, 1923, she entered the novitiate of the Sisters of Providence at the Providence Mother House in Montreal. She made her first profession Nov. 19, 1924, and took her religious name, Sister Jeanne Default.

Sr. Jane was assigned to the St. Ignatius Province in Missoula in March 1925. Over the years she would serve the Sisters of Providence not only in Missoula, but also in Great Falls and St. Ignatius, Mont.

During her service in Montana, Sr. Jane’s ministries took place mainly in hospital settings. She considered herself a “jack of all trades” and would perform various services such as nursing or kitchen work.

She had provided service at Columbus Hospital in Great Falls, St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula and Holy Family Hospital in St. Ignatius, before moving to Mount St. Joseph in Spokane in 1976.

When asked what has helped her live a long and healthy life, Sr. Jane pointed skyward and firmly replied, “He’s the boss.”

One of her most memorable moments in her life thus far has been the time she spent on the farm during her ministry in St. Ignatius. She adored the 20 or more horses on the farm, as well as the dog, Panda, that lived in the house with the sisters. Sr. Jane also enjoyed her work at Columbus Hospital.