Marilyn Wightman

Marilyn Grace Wightman, known as Mara to loved ones, passed away on August 24, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born to parents George and Evelyn Wightman in Newark, New Jersey, in September 1941, she was the oldest of three siblings. An avid student, her straight A’s in most every grade made her a hard act to follow academically, according to her sister.

After graduating as high school valedictorian, she earned her undergraduate degree from Bucknell University, and her master’s degree from Harvard University. She also spent a year as an exchange student at Edinburgh University.

She parlayed her love of education into a lifelong teaching career. Starting as a math teacher at Charles E. Brown Middle School in Newton, Massachusetts, she transitioned into a computer and technology teacher as the new need arose. When she retired to her home in Cotuit, Massachusetts, she had spent decades working with students.

Retirement didn’t stop her from educating others. She tutored GED students in Hyannis, Massachusetts and volunteered with the Barnstable Land Trust.

Mara was an eager traveler from early on. Whether it was childhood journeys to her father’s home country of Scotland, later travels with her Auntie Bo, or trips in adulthood, she enjoyed exploring different countries and cultures.

She was active in multiple book clubs, her love of reading continuing throughout her life. She also loved sewing and quilting, making several of the quilts that she used in her home.

Mara is survived by her sister, Linda Runy; niece, Jennifer Runy; nephew, Michael Runy, and his wife, Kate; nephew, William Wightman, his wife, Cassie, and children, Cameron and Scotty; niece, Evelyn Brizendine, and her husband, Jordan, and children, Madeline and Mackenzie; niece, Mary Wightman; her sister-in-law, Rhoda Costello; her sister-in-law Christine Linkens; and her extended family and close friends. She was preceded in death by her brother William “Bill” Wightman.