Obituary: Mary Jane Walsh

Mary Jane Walsh, at 69

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Mary Jane Walsh, lovingly known as MJ, at the age of 69. She passed peacefully in her sleep at home in Hull on Sunday, February 2, 2025, in the presence of her loving friends. MJ lived a life full of integrity, warmth, and unwavering kindness. She led by example, always offering a helping hand, a listening ear, and a heart full of love. Her presence was a gift to all who knew her.

Ms. Walsh grew up in Hingham and was a 1973 graduate of Hingham High School. She went on to study sociology at Framingham State University, class of 1977, and later earned a master of education in instructional design from UMass-Boston, as well as a master’s in special education from Simmons College. In her early 20s, inspired by a cross-country trip to California, she brought the joy of roller skating to Boston Common, founding Wicked Wheels and renting skates to visitors out of a van. She spent many years working at WGBH and later found deep fulfillment in supporting and encouraging students at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, where she made a profound impact on countless students’ lives. Over the years, students and families expressed how she had saved them, how she made them feel heard, understood, and valued.

Ms. Walsh was a devoted sister, aunt, and friend. She was predeceased by her parents, James M. and Rita L. Walsh, her brother Jimmy and sister Laura, and her beloved niece Phoebe. She leaves behind her siblings, Rita and Stephen (Carolyn), and her adored nieces and nephews: Annie (Keith) Gerrard, Keira, Paul, Nathaniel, Stephen (Layla), Olivia, Hannah, Lucy, Owen, and Mary Clare. She will also be deeply missed by her many treasured lifelong friends, whose lives she touched with her wisdom, humor, and boundless generosity. Ms. Walsh had a remarkable ability to connect with people, always curious and deeply interested in their lives. She especially cherished friendships from her early years. She often spoke of her “Family of Friends” – a circle of unwavering love and support that meant the world to her. She never took these relationships for granted and carried deep gratitude for each one.

A lifelong friend of Bill W., Ms. Walsh lived with purpose, advocating for justice and uplifting those around her. She found peace in meditation and led by example, embracing life with a spirit of gratitude. In retirement, she found joy in the simple pleasures – looking out over Nantasket Beach, riding her tricycle along the seawall, swimming, writing, and sharing meaningful conversations. She loved playing cribbage, listening to the Beatles, and giving the best, strongest hugs. Above all, she had a rare gift for making others feel truly seen and valued.

MJ’s light, love, and laughter will remain in our hearts forever. May she rest in peace.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to remember Ms. Walsh together at the Hingham Community Center, 70 South St., on Saturday, February 15, from 12-3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider performing a random act of kindness in MJ’s memory, or donating to a charity of your choice in her honor.

“You may say I’m a dreamer
But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us

And the world will live as one.”