02/02/2026
Deceased: Lillian K. Whelan
Date of Death: January 31, 2026
Lillian K. Whelan died peacefully in her home surrounded by her family at the age of 93.
Lillian was a lifelong resident of the Syracuse area. She was a graduate of Central High School where she was president of the Alethean Sorority. After high school, Lillian began working at Marine Midland Trust Company until moving to California for a year. Upon returning, Lillian began working at Crouse Irving Hospital until beginning her family. Lillian cherished raising her children with the love of her life, Jimmy. After all her children were in school, Lillian began working in the Sears catalog department and worked there for over 20 years.
Lillian was an active and dedicated communicant of Holy Family Church in Fairmount for many years, serving on the Altar Rosary Society and Holy Family Seniors Group. She also volunteered at the former church gift shop and food pantry. Lillian took pride in being a funeral luncheon team captain, and she worked annually on the Hope Appeal.
She was predeceased by her devoted husband James Whelan, her parents Harold Kuhl and Mary Kuhl Sweet, and her Son-in-law John Anderson.
Lillian is survived by her loving children David (Evelyn) Whelan of Exeter, PA, Susan Whelan, Kathy Anderson, and Nancy Whelan of Camillus, and Dan Whelan of Cicero; Daughter-in-law Marie Whelan of Camillus; grandchildren Jennifer (Brian), Sarah, Samantha, Jace, Zoie, and Payton; great grandchildren Madison and Jameson; Sister-in-law Carol Whelan, and many nieces and nephews. Lillian’s children and grandchildren will remember her for her kindness, warmth, generosity, and unconditional love.
Calling hours will be held at Whelan Bros. and Hulchanski Funeral Home, 5854 Belle Isle Road, on Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. A funeral mass is scheduled for Friday, February 6, 2026 at 10 a.m. at Holy Family Church in Fairmount, NY with burial to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Dewitt. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Lillian’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Family Food Pantry, 127 Chapel Dr. Syracuse, NY 13219 and the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Whelan Bros. & Hulchanski
Funeral Home.
5854 Belle Isle Road,
Syracuse, NY 13209