Presque Isle, Maine - Mary E. Whalen, 89, passed away peacefully, at the Presque Isle Healthcare Center on Monday, March 30, 2026, her 89th birthday. She was born on March 30, 1937, in Cambridge, MA, the daughter of Thomas Emmett and Irene (Walsh) Sheahan.

Mary was the heart of her family. She married her beloved husband, Durward, on February 27, 1960, and together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2016. Together they raised three children, Stacey, Shawn, and Amy, and built a life centered on love, family, and togetherness. Nothing brought Mary more joy than being surrounded by those she loved, whether gathered around the table for her cherished Sunday dinners or celebrating holidays filled with laughter, traditions, and warmth. Her home was always welcoming, and no one ever left hungry.

Mary was a lifelong communicant of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Presque Isle and held her faith close throughout her life. Her strong devotion guided her in all that she did and was reflected in her kindness, her service in Social Action, and the way she cared for others.

She shared her gift of cooking not only with her family, but with her community as well. For more than 30 years, Mary worked as a cook at St. Mary's Catholic Church, where she lovingly prepared meals for parish gatherings and cooked for the priests who became like extended family to her. She was especially known for her homemade apple pie, a favorite that brought comfort and joy to many over the years.

Her greatest pride and happiness came from being a nana. She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, creating memories that will be held close for a lifetime. Her love for them was constant, unconditional, and deeply felt in everything she did.

Mary will be remembered for her warmth, her generous spirit, and the way she made ordinary moments feel special. She had a gift for bringing people together and reminding everyone what truly matters, family love, and faith.

She is survived by her son, Shawn Whalen of Mapleton; two daughters and their husbands, Stacey and Joe Michaud, and Amy and John Billings, all of Presque Isle; five grandchildren, Brooke McIlwain (Rishard), Justin Michaud, Lindsay Trombley (Steve), and Taylor and Paige Billings; six great-grandchildren, Devin Osse, Emme Jo Vasquez, Olivia Michaud, Avah, Anah, and Benjamin Trombley; one great-great-granddaughter, Marlee Mae Osse. Mary also leaves behind two sisters-in-law, Maureen Woodard and Joan Workman; and special friends, Claire Albert and Mary Long. She was predeceased by her husband, Durward; her parents; her brothers, Ed, Joe, and Paul Sheahan; and her sister, Dorothy Grace.

Relatives and friends may call 10 a.m. Friday, May 8, 2026, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Presque Isle, where a Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with Fr. Thomas Xavier, SAC, celebrant. The family asks that you please join them for a reception and continued fellowship at the Knights of Columbus Hall immediately following the service. A private interment will take place at St. Mary's North Main Street Catholic Cemetery, Presque Isle. Arrangements in care of Duncan-Graves Funeral Home, 30 Church St., Presque Isle, ME 04769. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at: duncan-graves.com.