Helen Bray

Helen B. Bray, 85, of Conway, beloved wife of the late Russell M. Bray, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2009, at The Memorial Hospital in North Conway, after a lengthy illness. Born in Methuen, Mass., she was the daughter of the late George and Jane (Wilkinson) Brown.

She was predeceased by her husband of 34 years, Russell M. "Bud" Bray, in 1982. He was the love of her life. They moved to the Mount Washington Valley in 1968 and together they owned and operated The Big Pickle restaurant for many years. She was known and respected for her fierce independence, strong work ethic, wonderful sense of humor, and the forthright manner in which she always spoke her mind.

She was a longtime member of St. Margaret Anglican Church, where she served on the vestry and was active in the Widows Group and Ladies Guild.

Although she was predeceased by her brother and sister, she leaves an extended family of close friends who will treasure her memory always. She will be especially missed by her "adopted" daughter and granddaughter, Marie D'Onofrio and Jennifer Gatto, of Connecticut; her devoted friend, Barbara King and all of her St. Margaret parish family. She was also a dear friend of the late Kay Beggs.

Helen was extremely grateful for the compassionate and excellent care that she received over the years and during her final illness from Dr. Rabideau, Dr. Daigle, Dr. Tilney, Dr. Dickinson, and the nurses and staff of The Memorial Hospital.

A requiem mass will be celebrated at St. Margaret Anglican Church in Conway on Saturday,

October 3rd, 2009, at 1p.m., followed by interment in the Memorial Garden.

The Furber and White Funeral Home in North Conway is in charge of arrangements.