Helen M. Gray-January 23, 1948 – June 1, 2026
Helen M. Gray, beloved mother, grandmother, godmother, cousin, devoted friend, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, at the age of 78.
Helen was the loving mother of Steven S. Albano of Everett and the proud grandmother of Marjorie H. Lever, also of Everett.
She was the devoted godmother and Second Mom to Gwen Gustafson and was lovingly regarded as a grandmother to Kristen, Jake, and Savannah, as well as to her three boys, Maverick, James, and Jordan, all of whom brought tremendous joy to her life.
She is also survived by her dear cousins, John Baxter and his wife Nora of North Branford, CT, and their son Evan; and Kenneth Baxter and his wife Verna of Plaistow, NH, and their daughters April, Karen, Susan, and Lauren, as well as many extended family members and friends.
Helen was cherished deeply by all who knew her, especially her firefighter family. Until her retirement in 2017, after 17 dedicated years, she faithfully served as administrative support to the Fire Chief of the North Reading Fire Department. Her commitment, loyalty, and compassion made her an irreplaceable part of the department and a trusted friend to countless firefighters and their families.
A God-fearing woman with a generous heart, Helen devoted her life to caring for others before herself. She was a true humanitarian whose kindness knew no limits. Whether offering comfort, guidance, or simply a listening ear, Helen touched the lives of everyone around her with warmth, grace, and unwavering love.
Her strength, faith, and selflessness will be remembered always. Helen leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, and unconditional love that will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know her.
She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.
Her Funeral will be held on Friday, June 5 at 9:15 AM from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street, North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, June 4 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Interment will follow at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the North Reading Fire Department, 152 Park Street, North Reading, MA 01864.
www.croswellfuneralhome.com
Steven, Marjorie and all of her family. She adored and loved each of you so much. The joy you brought her was her true joy in life.
Helen was an amazing woman and friend. My life will not be the same because she was a part of it.
I will miss her terribly but will remember her forever.
My love and friendship to all of you.
Helen was truly a blessing to everyone around her. The kindness, compassion, and love she shared were unconditional and touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit was pure, faithful, and unwavering. Even on her most difficult days, she carried herself with grace, strength, and a gentle smile.
Helen devoted her life to God, and it brings comfort to know she is now at peace, breathing freely in His presence. She was the embodiment of what a woman should be—strong, kind, loving, and selfless.
She will be deeply missed, her love, faith, and beautiful spirit will live on forever in our hearts.
To her beloved family my heart goes out to you, let the love she had for you ease you though these days as she would want you to continue with full hearts in her honor.