Posted Jan 22, 2024 | 11:34 AM
Helen passed away on January 16, 2024 in her 91st year with her daughters by her side at Dufferin Oaks, Shelburne, Ontario.
Survived by her daughter Barbara Pallister-Smith (Doug), son Victor Pallister (Margaret) and daughter Darlene Morrow (Jerry), and brother, Leonard Black and four grandchildren, Tracy Pallister (Gordie Zeh), Mark Pallister (Adrienne), Tyler Morrow (Emily) and Carly Morrow.
Predeceased by her parents George & Ila Black, husband Mac, daughter Ivy, sister Beryl Black and sister-in-law Jean Black.
Helen graduated from Toronto Normal School in 1951 .Her first teaching job was in Egremont township (Boothville) during the 1951-2 school year. Helen and Mac were married July 26, 1952 and began farming in the Bethel area. In 1954 they moved to a farm near Swinton Park. Helen returned to full time teaching in 1965 after having raised four children. Helen continued her teaching career, later teaching special education. Helen’s last teaching position was at Grey Highlands Secondary School teaching life skills to the developmentally disabled.
Helen retired from teaching in 1988. Mac and Helen sold the farm in 1978 and settled in Flesherton until 1999, when they decided to move to Dundalk. Helen was always involved in the community with various charitable events and very active in church activities. Helen and Mac also enjoyed travelling to Europe, British Isles, Australia, New Zealand and numerous bus trips to the United States enjoying destinations that featured country music. Helen’s hobbies included spending many hours in her garden, baking and playing the piano.
In Helen’s later years she was diagnosed with dementia which required a move to assisted living at Birmingham Lodge, Mount Forest in 2014 and later a move to Dufferin Oaks in October 2017. A heartfelt thank you to Dufferin Oaks caregiving staff and Sherri Giles Personal Support caregiver for their endless compassion and care. Also, providing comfort and support during Helen’s final hours.
Friends and family will be received at the McMillan & Jack Funeral Home – 291 Main Street East, Dundalk on Friday, January 26, 2024 from 6 – 9 p.m. The funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Spring interment at Dundalk Maple Grove Cemetery.
If desired, donations can be made to South East Grey Support Services or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be placed at www.mcmillanandjackfuneralhome.com