Photo courtesy of Byles-Groton Memorial Home - Groton
Groton, Connecticut
May 16, 1928 – Feb 18, 2025
HELENA M. ILVENTO age 96 of Groton, passed away on February 18, 2025 at Fairview in Groton.
She was born in New London on May 16, 1928 the daughter of Frank and Alice Banta Perry. She grew up in New London. She married David Ilvento on February 28, 1947 in New London. David passed away on April 22, 2009.
Helena had worked for many years at Electric Boat Company in Groton retiring as a Leader in the Graphic Reproduction Department. While working at EB they launched the USS Helena, which she would jokingly say was named after her.
She volunteered for the Red Cross, Pfizer Players, the Groton Senior Center and Sacred Heart Church. She was also a member of the Groton Business and Professional Women’s Club.
Her interests were sewing, knitting, crocheting, making quilts. She loved all crafts. She also was a fan of UCONN Women’s Basketball.
Helena is survived by her son, David of Groton, grandson, Julian her brother, Herbert Perry of Groton, her sisters, Ann Winn of Norwich and Marcella McEwen of Glen Falls, NY.
She was predeceased by her brothers, Albert, Frank, Jim, Bob and Billy and her sisters, Colombia Hart, Frances Branzell, Marie Lott, Alice Anderson and Gail Havey.
A very special thanks to Deborah Engdall, long time friend and brother Herb Perry and Carmon Palomares who gave her care, love and joy to allow her to fulfill her wish to stay in her home until her last few days.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 28th at 10:30 o’clock at Sacred Heart Church, 52 Sacred Heart Dr, Groton. Interment will be in Colonel Ledyard Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Thursday from 4 until 6 at the Byles-Groton Memorial Home, 310 Thames St. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be directed to Sacred Heart Church.
Read MoreDave, sorry to hear about your Mom’s passing. I have so many great memories doing crafts, playing in the yard, heading down to DQ for a treat, and even sitting on the front porch and chatting. May she rest in peace with your father by her side.
Patty Rello (Mauro)
March 04, 2025 | Pueblo West, CO | Neighbor
We thoroughly enjoyed many years of a wonderful friendship with Helene and Davie. Will miss visiting and talking over old times with her during visits east. May she rest in peace.
Ed Abrahams
March 04, 2025 | St Simons Isl, GA | Friend
Dear Dave, Please accept my deepest sympathy. Heaven has gained another angel ! It broke my heart to hear of her passing. ❤ Your Dear Mother and Father will always hold A very special place in my heart. While living at 15 West Street for close to 30 years I always enjoyed my favorite neighbors. Your parents were very special !
Claudette Leyko Ashman
February 28, 2025 | New Smyrna Beach, FL | Friend
Dave,
Your Mom was always a joy to be around.
She was blessed to have had you, as her son,there to help her. You are all in my prayers.
Donna Upchurch
February 27, 2025 | Mystic, CT | Friend
We would like to send our sincere sympathies to Helena's family. She was an integral part of the senior center and had many friends there. Club 55 and Thrive 55+ Sunshine Committee.
Susan Phillips
February 27, 2025 | MYSTIC, CT
So sorry to about Helena ‘s passing. She was a wonderful person. We worked together at EB for a while. David and rest of family , so sorry for your loss. May she RIP.
barbara thomas
February 27, 2025 | Rotonda West, FL | Friend
So sorry to hear about your Mom! Many memories of going to the house and sit on the stoop. Thoughts and prayers to you, your family and especially to Helena.
Donna Pierce Cipolla
February 26, 2025
I'm so sorry about Aunt Helena's passing..She lived a long rich life.. She was a caring and generous person..Always letting me read all your books when we came over..She made sure I autographed each and everyone..
Linda ( winn ) corrao
February 24, 2025 | North Franklin, CT | Family
Dave, I´m so sorry about your mom!! From what I´ve seen, you were a great son! Have no regrets!
Orchis moon
February 24, 2025
