Mary Catherine Whalen

Mary Catherine Whalen, affectionately known as "Baby Scott" and "Beaver," departed this life peacefully on July 12, 2025, in Newburg, Maryland, surrounded by her cherished family. Born on March 22, 1941, in Charles County, Maryland, Mary lived a life that was rich with love, laughter, and an unwavering passion for cooking.

Mary was an entrepreneur who made a name for herself in the culinary world. She operated a successful catering business and became widely recognized for her extraordinary skills in the kitchen, particularly her renowned chitterlings and fried chicken. Many knew her fondly as the "Chitterling Lady." Over the years, she operated numerous kitchens throughout the County, serving delightful dinners that brought joy to many.

Mary was full of zest for life. She enjoyed vacationing in Atlantic City each year, where she would indulge in playing the slot machines. Her love for gambling later extended to the Delaware casinos, where monthly visits became a beloved tradition, often shared with her children, Johnny and Shirley. As her health changed in later years, she found solace at home, developing a fondness for playing cards with her dear friends Rita, Dot, and Alice. Those joyful moments fostered a growing circle of cousins who joined in on the fun, enriching her life even further.

Mary's vivacious spirit endeared her to all who knew her. She was known for her fun-loving personality, being a hip shooter, and having a no-nonsense approach to life. Her playful fussiness with customers was offset by the exceptional food she served, ensuring they would return time and time again. Mary had a particular fondness for the color green—money green to be exact—reflecting her vibrant personality and entrepreneurial spirit.

Above all, Mary treasured her family. She was joined in Holy Matrimony to William Joseph Whalen, Sr. on April 29, 1961, at St. Mary's Newport Church, and together they welcomed twelve children into the world: Shirley Ann, William Jr., James Allen, Janice Marie, Phillip Gearod, Phyllis Renee, John Thomas, and Shellayne Denise. In a testament to her nurturing nature, Mary raised seven of her grandchildren in her Newburg home after her children grew up and moved out.

Mary's legacy will undoubtedly live on through her beloved family. She is survived by her children Sirley Ann, William Jr., Jams Allen, Janice Marie, Phillip Gearod, Phylis Renee, John Thomas, Shellayne Denise, along with her siblings David Lee and Joseph Allen "Moe." She also leaves behind a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were the pride and joy of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Joseph Whalen, and four of her children, Paul Eugene, Gerald Arnold, Tammy Jean, and Thomas Christopher, her parents Charles Gant, Harriet Johnson Dorsey, siblings Lucille Briscoe, Dorothy Dorsey, Francis Pete Gant, Louis Dorsey, George Dorsey, Charles Dorsey, James Dorsey, Joseph Gant, David Lee Gant

Mary Catherine Whalen will be remembered for her cooking prowess, her vibrant personality, and the love she imparted to her family and friends. She will truly be missed by all those who knew and were close to her.

Services to honor Mary's remarkable life will take place on July 22, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in LaPlata, Maryland. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM, followed by a Mass at 10:00 AM. A burial service will be held that afternoon at St. Mary, Newport Catholic Church in Charlotte Hall, Maryland, starting at 12:45 PM.