Helen May Dodge, 89, of Whittier, California passed away on Friday, June 13, 2014.

She was born in Fitchburg, MA on October 31, 1924, one of 11 children to Charles and Margaret Conner. Helen grew up in Townsend, MA graduating from Townsend High School in 1942. She married the late Joseph Dodge in 1958 at the Methodist Church in Townsend. The couple moved to Whittier, CA in 1967 where Helen lived until shortly before her passing.

Helen was a beloved member of her community and was known for her daily walks around the neighborhood. She was always the first to volunteer to care for those in need. This was evident early in her life when she took on the responsibility of raising her nephew Stanley following her brother's death.

Helen worked for various companies as a secretary including the United States government, Continental Cans and Alpha Beta Grocery Stores. Her greatest accomplishment, however, began in 1971 when she took on the role of a single mother. She was the sole provider for her two sons. She made sure her family was well taken care of by putting aside her own needs.

Helen's favorite pastime was gardening. Her beautiful rose bushes adorned the front of her home. She loved to give away the oranges, lemons, corn, cucumbers, zucchini, squash and tomatoes that she grew in her backyard.

She cherished her golden retriever dog, Elmo. He was her constant companion and accompanied her on the daily walks. They were a striking pair 'cruising' the neighborhood.

Her granddaughters were her pride and joy. She enjoyed every opportunity to take care of them, support and encourage their different interests, and spoiled them with love.

Helen is survived by her son Mark and his wife Monique; granddaughters Jessica, Tammi, and Michelle; brothers Jim and Charles Conner; sisters Charlotte Bennett, Jean McGrath, and Alice Selfridge.