Helen J. Mahoney

Helen Joyce (Williams) Mahoney was born on August 26, 1913 in Sandy, OR to Raymond and Nettie Williams. She was raised in the Portland area with her two brothers, Raymond and Harry. Helen graduated from Commerce High School.

Helen had seven children. She is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth Charles and Catherine Grimm, and her son, Dennis Mahoney. She was preceded in death by her children, Patrick Mahoney, Marilyn Cubic, Michael Mahoney, and Patricia Ballantine.

In 1951, Helen exchanged wedding vows with John W. Mahoney in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Together, the couple raised their children. They were also blessed with 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. John preceded Helen in death in January of 1991.

Helen enjoyed flowers and tending to her garden. She also enjoyed cooking and canning. The canning may have started as a necessity during difficult times, but over the years she spent many hours in the kitchen, canning food for her family. Her children remember her as a strong woman, experiencing many losses during her long life, and powering through each with grace. They also remember her being very proud of her Irish roots, and never letting anybody forget it!

Helen passed away on May 31, 2011 in Portland, Oregon. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 7, 2011 in Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will be in Willamette National Cemetery. Viewing will be available from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday, June 6 and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, June 7.

Helen was a lover of animals, and the family suggests contributions in her name to the Oregon Humane Society, or another organization that benefits animals.