Emily J. Whittum

Emily J. (Silipo) Whittum, giver of life and love, a devoted caregiver and loving matriarch, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, at the age of 93.

Emily was raised in Hingham, Massachusetts, where she graduated from Hingham High School before attending the Shepard Gill School of Nursing. Her life was defined by caring for others, especially children. In addition to serving as Director of the former Educare Child Centers in Norwell, Hanover, and Pembroke, Massachusetts, she also worked as a trusted nanny for several families over the years, forming lasting bonds and leaving a meaningful imprint on the lives of many children.

She was the beloved wife of the late Robert R. Whittum and the devoted mother of the late Robert C. Whittum of Idaho. She was also predeceased by her brother, James Silipo of Massachusetts, and her sisters, Christine Wilson of Massachusetts and Marie Harper of California.

Emily is survived by her loving children, Nancy L. Gove of Maine and Raymond R. Whittum of Colorado; her ten cherished grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; her sister, Myra Santacroce of Massachusetts; and several nieces and nephews.

Emily found her greatest joy in caring for others and was often remembered as a real-life “Mary Poppins” for her warmth, creativity, and gentle sense of magic. She was also known for her quick wit and playful sense of humor, always ready with a clever remark or perfectly timed quip that kept everyone laughing. A wonderful cook who expressed her love through food, her family will forever cherish her homemade specialties, especially her stuffed shells, molasses cookies, and pumpkin bread. She treasured time spent with her loved ones and enjoyed reading and crocheting.

Her kindness and love will live on in the many lives she touched and she will be deeply missed.

Services will be private.