Helen Mary Healy

"Palmer-Helen M. Healy, 98, died peacefully at home on September 11, 2019. She was the daughter of the late M. Edward and Helen M. Healy and a lifelong Palmer resident. Helen graduated from American International College (AIC) in 1943 with a Secretarial degree, one of the few courses of study available to women at the time. Helen parlayed her degree into a 55-year career at the former James C. Haberman insurance agency in Springfield, MA. Her intelligence and poise positioned her for success as she rose to Executive Vice President, eventually retiring in 1999.Helen was a member of the Massachusetts Association of Insurance Women and the Palmer Business and Professional Women’s Club. She was also active with the AIC Alumni Association, and various local groups including the Elbow Plantation Historical Society, Palmer Library Association, and Palmer Senior Center. Helen’s love for travel took her to destinations throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and North Africa. While she often travelled with her beloved parents, she was unafraid to venture on her own, with a special affinity for train travel. In spite of all her journeys, Helen loved New England, especially the Maine coast where she spent many happy times with both friends and family.Helen leaves four nephews: Brian D. Healy, West Hartford, CT; Paul F. Healy & wife Lauren, Wyncote, PA; Mark E. Healy, Glen Ellen, IL; and Kevin A. Healy and wife Resmina, Culver City, CA. She also leaves seven grandnieces/nephews and one great-grandnephew. She also leaves her “second family,” the Charpentier and Lewis families, whose friendship and support over 50-plus years meant more than words can express.She was predeceased by her brother Paul E. Healy and his wife Ellen. Calling hours Saturday, Sept. 28th from 10-12:00 p.m. at the Beers and Story Funeral Home, 1475 N. Main St, Palmer, prior to a funeral home service that will begin at 12:00 p.m.. Burial will follow in the St. Thomas Cemetery, 1076 Thorndike St, Palmer, MA. Donations may be made to the Palmer Council on Aging or the American Cancer Society. For details, please visit www.beersandstory.com"