105 Helen D. Babson of Acton

ACTON: Helen Deane Babson's 105 extraordinary years came to a peaceful close on August 25 when, surrounded by her family, she passed away at Robbins Brook in Acton, Mass. Helen was born July 27, 1920 in Brooklyn, New York. She grew up in Farmingdale, Long Island, which was then mostly farms, and attended a one-room school before going to Farmingdale High School. She earned a B.A. from Brooklyn College in 1942. After a preparatory course at Columbia University, she embarked on a career as a technical writer for the engineers at Grumman Aircraft, a group whose intelligence, wit, and humor she long treasured. In 1952, Helen married William A. Babson, and the couple raised their family in New Jersey and West Virginia before settling in Simsbury, Conn. Helen loved growing and creating things – from vegetable and flower gardens to quilts and sweaters. She nurtured her family and friends – and any African violet that came her way – with a love grounded in her deep reverence for life. When she lost her vision at age 82, she adapted with grace and good humor, and used her wit and wisdom, intelligence, and spirit to enrich the lives of family, friends, and each community in which she lived. Wherever she went, she was a force of nature, inspiring those around her with her feisty strength, sharp mind, and humor. Helen loved her family fiercely. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, William, who died of ALS in 2001. She is survived by her son, William A. Babson, Jr and wife Deborah, daughters Sarah E. Babson, Mary B. Fuhrer and husband Jeffrey, and Anne Babson-Gulotta and husband Joseph; six grandchildren, Jill Grundy, Rachael Babson, Margaret Sista, John Fuhrer, Jeffrey Fuhrer, Sanne Casello and spouses, and five great-grandchildren, Bennett, Julia, Cecilia, Alice, and Jane. Funeral arrangements are private. Donations in her memory can be made to the ALS Association or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The Anderson Funeral Home,25 Fitchburg Road, Ayer is assisting the family with arrangements.