Mary Whalen

Mary Whalen, 88, of Natick and formerly Wellesley, Massachusetts, passed away on August 5, 2026 after a short illness. Born in 1938 to Mary Alice and Thomas Whalen of Whitman, MA, she was a beloved daughter, mother, aunt, sister, partner, friend and colleague.

After graduating from Emmanuel College in 1959, Mary began work in Schenectady, NY as a mathematician doing work for NASA. Later moving back to Boston, she spent her career at Lincoln Labs and then at Charles Stark Draper Laboratories in Cambridge, MA as a software systems engineer working on guidance systems for the Space Shuttle program. As a professional woman in the sciences she was deeply respected for her sharp intellect and her straightforward leadership.

Mary’s greatest legacy, however, was in how she served others. She was a caring sister to her three siblings and their families; always the first one to be there in a time of crisis. Her home in Wellesley, Massachusetts always had an open door for nieces, nephews, friends, and dogs in need of a home.

Following her retirement from Draper Laboratories, Mary began a second career as a volunteer for the Wellesley Free Libraries. She helped organize and run their book sales for many years, and served as President of the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries, earning herself a nickname among her nieces and nephews as “Auntie Prez.” An ardent Democrat, Mary also remained active in local government and served as a longtime poll worker in Wellesley.

After moving to Natick, Mary volunteered with the Council on Aging to deliver Meals on Wheels and take anyone in need of a ride on their errands. She was always available to watch over her grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends’ children. Mary was happiest behind the wheel of her car, heading over to see someone who needed her.

Mary leaves her brother, Thomas Whalen (Etta), of Whitman, MA, her sister, Sheila (Clif) Campbell of Randolph, MA, her daughter, Kathy Simolaris (Tom), of Wilbraham, MA, many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will all miss her terribly. She was preceded in death by her brother, Kevin Whalen, and her beloved partners of many years, James Reid, and later, James Bower.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church in Wellesley. Visitation will be held immediately prior to the Mass from 10-11 a.m. at the Henry J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, 56 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Friends of the Wellesley Free Library or the Massachusetts Democratic Party in her memory.