Mary Elizabeth (Lavallee) Goodell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away after enduring an 11+ year battle with ALS on Monday, December 9, 2024, at her residence in East Falmouth, MA. She was 77 years old.
Mary was born in Worcester, MA, on January 10, 1947, to James and Arlene (Meehan) Lavallee. She graduated from South High, in Worcester, with the class of 1964. She then went on to Framingham State University, and graduated in 1968 with a BA in Biology. She wrapped up her love for learning at Bridgewater State University with a Masters in Education in 1969.
She later moved to Falmouth and started her professional journey in education. She spent 8 years as a Biology teacher in the Bourne Public Schools, impacting the lives of countless students and creating relationships that would stand the test of time; often being greeted around town by her old students that were happy to catch up.
In 1976 she had her first of two children and made the easy decision to stay at home and dedicate herself to being the best mom anyone could ask for. She continued making a lasting impression on people when she would help out as a waitress at the family owned, Casey's Pub in Bourne. She later went on to work at Verizon, retiring for good in 2007.
Following her retirement, Mary split her time in Falmouth and Venice, and was at her happiest when she was visited by her kids and grandkids. When she wasn't spending time with family, she would always love a good happy hour with a live band and a few close friends, and of course Mark would always be by her side. Mark and Mary shared a special bond that would later prove to be a true testament of the love they shared for each other.
Mary is survived by her loving husband and long time caregiver, Mark Goodell of Falmouth, MA and Venice, FL, whom she was lucky enough to marry on June 17, 2006. She also leaves behind her son David Galaska and his wife Angela of West Roxbury, MA, daughter Katherine Bolton and her husband Brian of Gilbert, AZ, and six cherished grandchildren: Matthew, Ryan, Olive, and Mollie Galaska, and Delaney and Niamh Bolton. She is also survived by her brother, James Lavallee and his wife Teresa, from Tennessee, her niece Kristen Lavallee, and nephew Sean Lavallee and his wife Crystal.
At Mary's request no funeral service will be held, as she has asked for a small family gathering in it's place.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS.org).