Obituary of Helen Louise Boody

Helen Louise Boody (nee Williams) Helen died peacefully at the North Bay Regional Health Centre (NBRHC) on Tuesday, July 9 (one day before her 90th birthday). Helen was predeceased by her beloved husband, Gordon Henry and her parents, Dr. Claude Williams and Audrey (Parlee) Williams. She will be missed by her brother Dave Williams of Georgetown. Helen was a loving and giving mother to Joan Medina (Gus), Anne Horwood (George), David Boody (deceased 2007) (Margarita), Lois Houston, Ken Boody, (Nancy) Florence Boody Hunter (Cam) and Jane Armstrong (Rick Angel). Each one of her children has many wonderful memories: adventures in the North; cokes and chips while watching Saturday night hockey; trips to the Royal Conservatory of Music; handmade Christmas gifts; rum and jazz by the fireplace; and her lifelong intellectual pursuits. Her determination, perseverance, strength and thirst for knowledge were also passed on to 17 grandchildren: Mark, Scott, Ilya, Matthew, Lois, Adam, Karen, Emma, Jon, Mike, Leah, Blair, Gordon, Valerie, Aaron, Luke and Joel. Her devotion and commitment to family was always evident, including during her final days when she welcomed the birth of her 9th great grandchild and eagerly anticipated the arrival of her 10th. Helen served with the Canadian Women’s Army Corps doing medical research before marrying her beloved Gordon in 1945. Together, they shared a love for music, family life and the North, eventually moving to Lake Talon, Rutherglen in 1970. Their move from Toronto signaled the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Helen loved the lake and resided there for close to 30 years before moving into North Bay. After raising her family, Helen was employed by the Ontario Northland Railway where she worked through to retirement. Helen’s community involvement included volunteering at the North Bay Regional Health Centre and the North Bay Food Bank. Her intellectual pursuits ranged from studies at the University of Toronto prior to World War 11 and carried on throughout her adult life. While raising seven children she obtained her BA at the University of Toronto through part time study and continued to audit courses beyond the age of 80 at Nipissing University. Helen was and continues to be an inspiration to her large immediate and extended family and to all whose lives she touched. She left an indelible mark on all she knew - a strong minded woman, she led by example and motivated many. Helen's family extends thanks to her family doctor, Dr. Brian Shaw, as well as Dr. Margaret Paul, and the compassionate staff at the NBRHC. If desired, donations may be made to NBRHC, or the Ottawa Heart Institute. At Helen’s request, there will be no funeral service.