Born in St. Louis and given the name Patricia Jean, she grew up in St. Agatha Parish. After graduating from Bishop DuBourg High School, she entered the novitiate of the Sisters of the Most Precious Blood in 1956 and professed first vows in 1958. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education at Fontbonne College. She also held certification as a Montessori teacher and as a licensed massage therapist.

Sister Jean Rachel taught at the pre-school, kindergarten and elementary levels, serving at St. Clement of Rome, St. Nicholas, Holy Family, Visitation Child Development Center and Linda Vista Catholic School, all in the St. Louis Archdiocese. She also taught in Quincy, Illinois.

While on sabbatical in California, Sister Jean Rachel studied massage therapy as a form of meditation and prayer. She applied these skills at the motherhouse in O’Fallon, at Parc Provence Retirement Center and at St. Monica and St. Joseph Retirement Centers while also serving as local coordinator of the latter two sites.

Sister Jean Rachel had a deep love of nature where she found God to be so present. Her gardening demonstrated a deep belief that creation is a manifestation of God.

Survivors include two sisters, Virginia Becker and Jackie Bless. There will be a private burial in the convent cemetery and a memorial Mass later.