Mary L.

Kierstead

Mary Kierstead passed away peacefully on September 26, 2026. She was born in Malden on September 27, 1951, daughter of Harold and Elizabeth (Campea) Kierstead. A graduate of Malden High School Class of 1969 and Tufts University Class of 1973, Mary earned a Masters in Mathematics from Tufts and a Masters in Computer Science from Rutgers. 

Mary enjoyed a varied career, initially working on a medical research project as a programmer. Later she turned to teaching, starting at Northeastern University and continuing as a math teacher at Arlington and Andover High Schools. As an advisor to the math and computer science teams, she formed strong bonds with her students 

Dogs made up an important part of her life. She loved her golden retrievers Augie, Isaac, and Sherlock. 

Mary was the cherished wife of Michael Weiss for 42 years, and a devoted mother to Gregory Weiss Kierstead and mother-in-law to Elizabeth McCullough. She is survived by her sister Marjorie Godding, brother-in-law Paul, and nephew Michael. Her presence will be missed by her many lifelong friends, with whom she shared a deep connection. She made friends easily whereever she went. 

An active community member, Mary was involved with the Malden Library Crew for many years. In retirement, she enjoyed exercise at the Y, gardening, mahjong, and book club with her oldest friends. She combined her loves of math and baking on Pi Day, loved visiting the Berkshires for its cultural offerings, and took pleasure in travel. 

Visitation will be at the A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home, 865 Main Street, Malden on Tuesday, October 6, from 11:00am-1:00pm, followed by a gathering at Anthony’s Restaurant in Malden. 

Donations in Mary's memory may be made to the MSPCA, breast cancer organizations, and the American Lung Association.