Margaret Bogle Whalen

With heavy hearts yet with gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Margaret Bogle Whalen, who left us on June 27, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on April 20, 1950, in Quincy, Massachusetts, Margaret was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Vesta Bogle. She was predeceased by her parents and two brothers, whose memories she cherished deeply. Margaret was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her loving husband, Richard "Dick" Whalen, with whom she shared a profound and enduring love since their marriage in February 1988 at the Chapel By The Sea on Captiva Island. Their lives were a testament to the beauty of companionship, family love, and finding joy in the simple pleasure of "nesting" at home. Margaret's educational journey began with her graduation from Waltham High in 1968. Her passion for nurturing young minds led her to Lesley College, where she graduated cum laude, before later earning a master's degree from Fitchburg State College. Her career as an elementary teacher in the Plymouth, Massachusetts schools spanned 32 years, during which she touched the lives of countless students with her dedication, compassion, and innate ability to make learning a joyous experience. Beyond her professional life, Margaret was an active member of her community. She served as a Sunday School teacher at the Unitarian Church in Plymouth and was a committed advocate for special education, serving on the ARC for the Massachusetts Department of Education. Her dedication was deeply personal, inspired by her beloved daughter Alyssa, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. Margaret's kindness, generosity, and infectious sense of humor left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone she encountered feel valued and appreciated, often using her quick wit to bring laughter and lightness to any situation. Margaret is also survived by her cherished daughter, Alyssa LaCroix, her stepchildren Kevin Whalen and his wife Nicola, Carolyn Whalen, Kyle Whalen, Cameron Whalen, and Connor Reagon. She was predeceased by her stepson, Timothy Whalen of Fredericton, NB, Canada. She also leaves behind a loving niece, Elizabeth McKinney of Portland, Oregon, four adored grandchildren, and one precious great-grandchild, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride. Margaret will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her dedication to her students, and her boundless generosity to everyone she met. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she loved and those she inspired. A celebration of Margaret's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor the memory of a remarkable woman who lived her life with grace, humor, and an abundance of love. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to organizations supporting autism research and education, causes that were close to Margaret's heart. May she rest in peace, knowing her legacy of love and kindness continues to touch the lives of many.