BOXFORD - Helen Wallace, 96, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Johnson City, Tennessee, Helen was the daughter of William E. Lyle and Vida C. Lyle. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Denver; her brother, Bill; and her sisters, Kathleen and Betty. With the guidance and friendship of Pastor Doug Walker and his wife, Marsi, Helen was comforted and prepared to meet God and her family who went before her.

Helen grew up on the family farm at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, where her lifelong love of God, music, animals, and nature took root. A gifted musician, she studied piano and organ at East Tennessee State University and Sullins College, earning her degree in music and teaching.

In 1953, Helen married Denver, and the two moved to New York City shortly after their wedding. Though always a country girl at heart, Helen embraced city life, studying organ under renowned teachers Alec Wyton and Edwin Hughes. She spoke often of the joy she felt playing the organ at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine and serving as organist for Broadway Temple United Methodist Church.

After a decade in New York, Helen and Denver moved to Rochester, NY; Livingston, NJ; and in 1976, Boxford, MA. There, they became deeply rooted members of the First Church Congregational of Boxford, where Helen would later serve as organist and choir director for many years. She poured her heart into her music, striving for excellence both in her own performances and in leading the choir. One of her proudest contributions was helping plan and install the church's new pipe organ — an instrument she adored playing.

Helen was a true fixture of Boxford, known for her daily walks to and from the church where she would practice the organ, stop for breakfast at the Boxford store, and return home. Outside of music, Helen enjoyed gardening and caring for animals, especially cats. Over the years many stray cats found their way to her home and her heart.  She was also a talented seamstress, known for sewing angels and other intricate, beautiful creations that brought joy to friends and family.

Helen is survived by her daughters, Kathy and Jennifer; her grandchildren, Allison, Craig, Noelle, Jacob, and Audrey; as well as Herb Schilling, Chip Wallace, and her nieces and nephew: Kim, Debbie, Lisa and Billy. She was predeceased by her nephews and a niece, Jimmy, Mark, and Margaret.

Helen will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her devotion to music, and the grace she brought to every part of her life.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to Helen's funeral service which will be held at First Church Congregational - Boxford, Georgetown Rd., Boxford, MA on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 10 AM. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., DANVERS. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Helen's memory to Northeast Animal Shelter, 347 Highland Ave., Salem, MA 01970. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

MSPCA at Northeast Animal Shelter
347 Highland Ave., Salem, MA 01970
Web: http://mspca.org/adoption-centers/northeast-animal-shelter/