Cecelia Whelan

Tesuque, New Mexico – Cecilia “CeeCee” Simon Whelan, formerly of Waterford, Connecticut, passed away on January 3, 2023, in the presence of her son Bill Whelan, and care provider Evangeline Greene. Ceil was born August 5, 1932, in Brooklyn, New York to Fred Simon and Martha Simon.

In the late 1930’s, the Simon Family moved to Connecticut, where they settled in Milford.  Ceil attended and graduated from Milford High School, before attending Southern Connecticut Teachers College (Southern Connecticut University) where she majored in elementary education because of her love of children.  Her senior year, she interned at the Mansfield Training School, working in the field of Special Education.  This is where she met the love of her life, Bill Whelan.

After their marriage in 1957, Bill and Ceil worked and lived in Mansfield, before moving to Waterford, Connecticut, where they both worked for the New London Public School System.

While working in New London, Ceil attended the University of Connecticut, where she obtained her master’s degree in education, as well as her “sixth year” certificate.

Ceil and Bill Enjoyed traveling and spending the month of February in Grand Case, St. Martin, FWI for many years.

Ceil is survived her son Bill Whelan of Tesuque, New Mexico (Stephanie); granddaughter Valentina Giraldo-Torres of the United States Coast Guard, and sisters; Doloros Poehailos, Alberta Slattery and Hilda Wilson. Ceil was predeceased by Bill, her husband of 64 years, as well as sisters; Blanche Kardasz and Phyllis Zander.A celebration of life will be held at a date to be determined. There are no calling hours. Condolences may be shared on Ceil's memorial page at www.riverafamilyfuneralhome.com/.