Mary Leila Maginnis Whipple

Mary Leila Maginnis Whipple, lovingly known as Mary Lee Whipple, passed away peacefully, with a smile on her face, on March 31, 2025, at the age of 86, with her beloved husband, Wayland, by her side. In the days leading up to her passing, she was surrounded by the warmth and love of her family, who comforted her through her heavenly transition.

Born on November 24, 1938, in Houston, Texas, Mary Lee was the daughter of Thurston Vallery Maginnis and Doris Ola Taylor Maginnis. She grew up alongside her sister, Jane Maginnis Murph, forming bonds that would last a lifetime.

A proud graduate of Lamar High School in Houston (Class of 1957), Mary Lee continued her academic journey at the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English and Sociology in 1960. She later completed her master’s in humanities from the University of Texas at Dallas.

Mary Lee’s passion for education shaped the lives of countless students over a remarkable 40-year teaching career. She taught English to students in public and private schools in Houston, Dallas, Austin and Beaumont. As a curriculum developer and trainer for Abydos Literacy Learning International, she influenced educators far beyond her own classroom. A dedicated member of Pi Beta Phi sorority, the Daughters of the American Revolution, P.E.O. International, The Order of the Daughters of the King, and the Altar Guild for many churches, she served her communities with deep conviction and grace.

Mary Lee was deeply involved in her children’s lives and communities. She served as a youth group leader at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Austin and volunteered as a Cub Scout and Girl Scout leader, and room mom, always finding ways to nurture and support young lives. After retiring, Mary Lee found joy in mentoring student-athletes at the University of Texas at Austin, providing academic support and Sunday night suppers that made her home a second home for many.

Mary Lee had many creative talents. A gifted needle-pointer, cross-stitcher, and quilter, she judged quilt entries at the State Fair of Texas and donated many of her creations to Lady Hero Quilts, supporting women serving in the military.

Her zest for life was matched by a love for travel from the mountains of Colorado to the beaches of Texas, from European cities to Hawaiian coasts, she explored the world with her lifelong companion, Wayland. She adored music and the arts, never passing up a chance to enjoy the opera, symphony, or a good musical.

Mary Lee’s home was a haven filled with hospitality, hilarity and the irresistible aromas of her Southern cooking. Friends and family cherished her festive gatherings, including her and Wayland’s iconic New Year’s Day turkey soup party.

More than anything, Mary Lee was a giver of love and joy. She made every person feel seen, valued and welcome whether they were a student, friend or stranger. Her boundless compassion, infectious energy, and bubbly spirit meant she rarely arrived on time but when she did, she brought joy and laughter with her.

Mary Lee is survived by her devoted husband of 65 years, Leslie Wayland Whipple; her children Leslie Kring (Scott), Chris Whipple (Julie), and Sarah Whipple (Justin Kolls); her grandchildren Taylor Kring, Katie Garces (Efrain), Brady Whipple, Noah Whipple, Ava Gilliam and Jack Gilliam; and great-grandchildren McKinley Bonner, Trinity Bonner, and Ezra Garces. She is also survived by her sister Jane Maginnis Murph, and nephews Tyler Murph (Rebekah and son Landon) and TJ Murph (Jessica and daughter Sophie).

A public memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Grace Episcopal Church in Georgetown, Texas.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at Westminster for their compassionate and gentle care during Mary Lee’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to P.E.O. International, an organization close to Mary Lee’s heart, supporting educational opportunities for women.

Mary Lee’s legacy is one of love, learning, and boundless joy. Her spirit lives on in the many lives she touched, and her memory will be cherished forever.