Helen M. (Landry) Hurley, born in Newton and long-time resident of Waltham, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, at the age of 90. Helen’s parents, Elias Landry and Mary May (Leblanc) Landry immigrated to Newton from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia prior to the birth of Helen. Elias and May raised Helen in Newton along with her brother David Landry, who now resides in Milford. Helen attended St Jean’s school through 8th grade, which predominantly served the French speaking community in their Nonantum neighborhood, and was an enthusiastic member of the St. Jean’s choir. She subsequently graduated from Our Lady’s high school in Newton.
At the age of 22, Helen married Henry R. (Bob) Hurley (deceased 1978) of Brighton, Ma. Soon after they moved to Belmont, then Waltham. Helen became a full time Mom for their two sons; Brian Hurley currently of Moultonborough, NH and Mark Hurley (deceased 2023) of Laconia, NH. After Henry’s passing, Helen went back to work as an Administrative Assistant and continued to lovingly raise her two sons on her own.
Helen was a kind, generous and compassionate person, who time and time again made personal sacrifices to care for others in their time of need, including her Sons, her Husband, her Mother and Aunts. She loved to cook for her family and friends; it was unlikely that any visitor would leave with an empty stomach. Helen enjoyed chatting with her neighbors and friends and walking in her Waltham neighborhood; she never did get her Driver’s license. She enjoyed accompanying family on vacations around the New England area, but never wanted to step in an airplane. Helen was happiest at home visiting with her extended family and spoiling her granddaughters.
Helen is survived by her son Brian, her daughter-in-law Paula Hurley, brother David Landry and sister-in-law Virginia Landry, sister-in-law Carolyn Hurley, her cherished granddaughters Emma Hurley, Meghan Hurley, Lauren Hurley, Erin Hurley, nieces and nephews.
A Prayer Service will be held at the Newton Cemetery chapel on Wednesday, Sept 24 at 12 Noon, followed by the burial.