Helen L. (Sheffield) Gifford, 86, of Nobleboro, passed away on the morning of May 19 at The Knox Center for Long Term Care in Rockland. Helen was born on Jan. 1, 1932 in Boston, Mass., and was the daughter of the late Walter Sheffield Sr., the late Coretta (McCormack) Gifford, and step-daughter to the late Ernest J. Gifford. Helen and her husband Sherman T. Gifford recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary on Feb. 25.
In her early years, Helen enjoyed the time she spent on Loud’s Island, where she met the love of her life, Sherman. For much of her adult life, she split her time living and working between Massachusetts and Maine, moving to Maine in the late 70s.
During her lifetime, Helen was a member of the Rev. Billy Graham’s Choir. The Salvation Army was an important part of Helen’s life, so much so that she and Sherman had all of their children’s Dedication Ceremonies at The Hyde Park Mass Corp.
Helen had many jobs in her lifetime, but none brought her more joy than when she earned her certificate as a Personal Support Specialist, and went to work for Kno-Wal-Lin in Damariscotta. Helen’s passion was sewing layettes for her grandchildren, clothing for dolls, and quilting. When it came to sewing, she did it all.
Helen was predeceased by her eldest daughters, Cheryl Gifford, and Sherri Gifford Hopkins.
In addition to her husband, Helen is survived by brother, Albert Sheffield of Bath; brother-in-law, Larre Gifford and wife Carol, also of Bath; daughter, Sandra Tougas and husband Michael of Rockland; son, Scott Gifford of Warren; daughter, Sharon Faloon and husband Randall, also of Warren; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.
A service for Helen will be held at 11 a.m., Fri., June 1 at the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home in Damariscotta, with the Rev. David O’Donnell officiating. She will be laid to rest privately on Loud’s Island.
Condolences, and messages for her family, may be expressed by visiting StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
