Helen Small

1933 - 2025

Helen Small
1933 - 2025
Helen Marie Small (Greenwood) passed away peacefully with her family at her side at Manchester Memorial Hospital on July 24, 2025, at the age of 91. Helen was born in Westchester, New York, on August 11, 1933, to Herbert and Elizabeth Greenwood. She was predeceased by all her siblings John, Elizabeth, and Herbert.
After moving to Connecticut, she met the love of her life Richard G. Small Sr. at ages 14 and 16yrs old whom she married and recently celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary. Together they raised four children at their residence in Manchester: Michael (deceased; wife Sandy), Kathleen Wilkie Small, Richard G. Jr. (wife Susan) and Doreen. Helen leaves behind four grandchildren whom she loved dearly: Lisa Trotta (husband Brian), Jenna Hart (fiancé Kevin Clark), daughters of Kathleen, and Sean and Dylan- sons of Richard Jr. and Susan.
Helen took great pride in caring for her home and flower gardens. She had much joy in the simple tasks of cleaning, hanging out her laundry, cooking & baking- especially her famous "Congo Bars" at the holidays. She loved all nature & wildlife, walking with her daughters and friends, gardening, cruising with her husband in their antique vehicles to car shows, and anything chocolate. In her earlier years she could be found preparing the family camper for their many excursions all up and down the East Coast. She was the matriarch of the Small Family who always took care of everyone; especially caring for her daughter Doreen after her accident. Her love of family and friends was her greatest attribute. All those who knew Helen can remember her sparkling blue eyes and waving goodbye out her kitchen window. She even took up painting class in her 90's; a real inspiration to all who knew her. Helen loved sitting with her family outside and still enjoying the fresh air, flowers and sunshine.
Helen and Dick wish to pay special thanks to their wonderful friends and lifetime neighbors John and Mary Gorman, Ronald and Shirley Hewett and Jan Day for their kindness and thoughtfulness throughout the years. A special thank you also to their friends Larry and Kathy Peterson, her daughter-in-law Sandy, niece Jessie, Karen, lifetime family friend Bob Lyon, and to Doreen's assistant Serena for her continued support to her daughter. You were all loved by her dearly. And extended thank you to the ICU staff at Manchester Memorial Hospital for their excellent care and kindness to the family.
The John F. Tierney Funeral Home has care of the arrangements. A private family service to be arranged with no calling hours. Private burial will occur at the family's convenience. For online condolences, please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.