Manchester, NH – Sister Mary Whelan, RSM, age 86, a devoted member of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, for 67 years, entered eternal life on June 29, 2026, while vacationing in Maine.
Born in Concord, New Hampshire, on April 18, 1940, Mary was the beloved daughter of David and Sarah (Collins) Whelan. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Mount Saint Mary College in Hooksett, New Hampshire. Responding to God’s call, Mary entered the Sisters of Mercy on September 8, 1958, and professed her vows on August 15, 1961.
Mary’s life was a witness to God’s love. Her gentle wisdom, warm heart, generous spirit, and gracious presence touched countless lives. Whether in the classroom, among her sisters in community, or with family and friends, Mary had a remarkable gift for making each person feel welcomed, valued, and loved.
Throughout her ministry, Sister Mary faithfully embraced the charism of Mercy. She shared her love of learning and her deep faith as a teacher at Mount Saint Mary Academy, Westside Catholic, and Saint Catherine School. She later served as administrator of Saint Patrick Home for Young Women, offering compassionate leadership and encouragement to those entrusted to her care. She also ministered in community service for the Sisters of Mercy, always giving of herself with humility and joyful dedication.
Those who knew Sister Mary will remember her unfailing kindness, quiet strength, and gracious hospitality. Her life was rooted in prayer and gratitude. The words engraved on her profession ring and embraced as her life’s motto were simple yet profound: “Thanks be to God.” They expressed the spirit with which she lived each day-with humility, hope, and thanksgiving for every blessing.
Mary cherished her family deeply. She was predeceased by her parents, David and Sarah Whelan, and her brother, James Robert Whelan. She is lovingly survived by her sisters, Helen McKerley, Patrice Couture White and husband Bryan, and Sarah Soucy and her husband Albert; her brother, David Whelan and wife Jane; her sister-in-law, Sandy Whelan; the Sisters of Mercy and her dear friend Sr. Barbara Nelson; and many nieces, nephews, former students, colleagues, and dear friends who were blessed by her love and friendship.
Friends and family are invited to calling hours on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 10-11 AM, at the Warde Senior Living, 21 Searles Road, Windham, NH 03087. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 AM, in the Chapel. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Bedford, New Hampshire. Memorial donations may be made to Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, 15 Highland View Road, Cumberland, Rhode Island 02864-1124, and online at www.sistersofmercy.org. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit: www.carrierfuneralhome.com.
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