Wally Funk, who waited six decades to reach space, dies at 87

NPR | By Kathryn Fink,

Janaya Williams

Published July 10, 2026 at 5:25 PM EDT

Pilot Wally Funk has died at 87. Denied the chance to become a NASA astronaut, she finally reached space at age 82 aboard a Blue Origin flight.

Kathryn Fink

Kathryn Fink is a producer with NPR's All Things Considered.

Janaya Williams

WRVO is at a critical moment.

Recent cuts to federal funding are challenging our mission to serve central and upstate New York with trusted journalism, vital local coverage, and the diverse programming that informs and connects our communities. This is the moment to join our community of supporters and help keep journalists on the ground, asking hard questions that matter to our region.

Stand with public media and make your gift today—not just for yourself, but for all who depend on WRVO as a trusted resource and civic cornerstone in central and upstate New York.

Support WRVO now