Helen M. Gadourey – age 80, wife of the late Richard Gadourey died peacefully Wednesday, September 17 at the Lahey Hospital in Burlington surrounded by her family.
She was born in Boston, November 24, 1944, a daughter of the late Roscoe J. and Helen M. (Smith) Stimpson and lived in Billerica all of her life.
Helen married her childhood sweetheart, Richie, and together they built not just a beautiful home, but a life filled with laughter, love, and unwavering devotion. Over their 57 years of marriage, they were true partners in every sense—facing life’s joys and challenges hand in hand. A true team, they were inseparable, their bond only growing stronger with time. He was, and forever will be, the love of her life—her constant, her comfort, and her greatest companion. Their love was the foundation of their family, a quiet, steady presence that shaped generations and left a legacy of what it truly means to love someone with all your heart.
Helen dedicated 42 years of her life as a school bus driver for Christianson Bus, leaving a lasting impact on countless children. She was more than just a driver—she was a source of kindness and compassion. Whether offering a listening ear, sharing a smile, or imparting her own brand of wisdom and corny jokes, Helen made sure every child felt seen and heard. She was affectionately known as "Happy Helen."
While Helen took great pride in her work, her greatest joy came from her roles as “Ma”, “Mum”, “Nan,” “Nanny,” “Other Nan,” and “Big Nan.” Her home was a haven—filled with warm hugs, delicious meals, and constant comfort. There, she raised her three children—Richard, Michele, and Heather—and played an instrumental role in the upbringing of her grandson, Craig. Nan’s love for her family was boundless. From Richard III sitting at the front door as Simba from The Lion King, to encouraging Julie through life’s lessons, or simply wrapping little Mitchell in one of her signature warm hugs, she was everything a child could ever need. She was always the biggest cheerleader for William, held a special place in her heart for Lexi, saw true sweetness in Jonathan, and cherished the fiery spirit of little Livi. Countless hours were spent on long-distance FaceTime calls with Rita Rita Pumpkin Eater and Ryanne, sharing love and laughter across the miles. There were unforgettable hip-hop talent shows with Kaydence and Sadie, and extra snuggly moments filled with love for Lacey. Nan gave freely of herself—always ready to help, never asking for anything in return. Her love and support touched every child, grandchild, and great-grandchild in her life.
Nan also found great joy in cooking and experimenting with new recipes. The kitchen was her happy place—a space where love was measured in heaping spoonfuls and shared around the table. She often discovered new dishes from her favorite cooking shows and the latest issues of her well-worn cooking magazines, always eager to try something different. Whether it was a hearty meal simmering on the stove or a freshly baked treat, she made sure there was always something comforting ready for her grown children when they stopped by after a long day of work, or while she was lovingly watching over her grandchildren. Feeding the people she loved was never a chore—it was one of the many ways she cared for them, quietly and consistently. Her food nourished more than just the body; it was a reflection of her generous heart and the warmth of her home.
A true Billerica native, she didn’t venture far from home, but when she did, she made the most of it. She cherished her annual trips to Wells Beach, Maine, a tradition she had since she was a young girl. She also enjoyed her travels to Ft. Myers for softball tournaments, and had many fun memories from her visit to Aruba. For her 25th anniversary, the family came together for a memorable Disney vacation. The most important part of any trip for her was sharing it with family.
She is survived by her son, Richard Gadourey and his wife Linda of Billerica; her daughters, Michele Morris of Billerica and Heather Plater and her husband Jon of Chelmsford and her eight grandchildren, Craig Chestnut and his wife Tiffany, Richard Gadourey III, Mitchell Gadourey and his wife Kristina, Julie Neuman and husband Daulton, William Morris Dungan, Alexis Plater, Jonathan Plater, and Olivia Plater and five great grandchildren, Kaydence Chestnut, Sadie Mae Chestnut, Lacey Jane Chestnut, Rita Neuman and Ryanne Neuman.
She was the sister of the late Ralph, William and Richard Stimpson and Gertrude Fitzpatrick.
A visitation will be held Sunday, September 21 at the Sweeney Memorial Funeral Home, 66 Concord Rd., Billerica from 1-4 p.m. Her funeral will begin Monday at 11 a.m. at the Sweeney Memorial Funeral Home with a graveside service be held at the Fox Hill Cemetery, 130 Andover Rd., Billerica at 12 Noon. Memorial contributions may be made in Helen’s name to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Direct link: https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=8967373&fr_id=154020&pg=personal
Previous Events
Visitation
21
Sep
66 Concord Road
Billerica, MA 01821
Graveside
22
Sep
130 Andover Rd.
Billerica, MA 01821
