Wally Funk, a pioneering aviator and early astronaut candidate, died at her home in Grapevine, Texas, on Wednesday at the age of 87, according to a city spokesperson. Funk was a trailblazer in aviation, known for her contributions to the field and her role in NASA's Women in Space Program in 1961.
Key Details
Born Mary Wallace Funk on February 1, 1939, she earned her pilot's license at 17 and became the first female flight inspector for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the first female investigator for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Funk logged over 19,600 flying hours and taught more than 3,000 students how to fly.
Grapevine City Councilwoman Duff O’Dell praised Funk's legacy, stating,
Her courage, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire young people — especially girls — to pursue careers in science, aviation, and space exploration.
Funk's impact on aviation and her role as a mentor to aspiring pilots have left a lasting mark on the industry.
Funk was also known for her humor and tenacity, famously stating,
Everything the FAA has, I’ve got the license for. And I can outrun you,
in a promotional video for Blue Origin in 2021.
Background
Her death has prompted tributes from various sectors, reflecting her influence and the barriers she broke in a male-dominated field. The City of Grapevine plans to honor her contributions and legacy in the community.
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Limited direct market relevance; Funk's passing is significant for the aviation community and those inspired by her work rather than for traded assets. Investors will watch for tributes and memorials that may highlight her influence on future generations in aviation and space exploration.