Obituaries

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt. Helen Marie May, aged 92 of Scranton, passed away peacefully at home on December 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, John M. May, who passed away in October 2009, and her son Joseph E. May, who passed away in September 1980 at the age of 17; and her brothers Joseph and John. She was the daughter of the late Thaddeus (Ted) and Helen Gallagher Walsh.

A graduate of Scranton Technical High School, Helen went on to work as an Executive Secretary at Federal Pacific before spending time with her husband Jack in Georgia, Texas, New York, and Connecticut. They returned to Scranton to raise their family.   Helen was a dedicated member of Saint Joseph’s Church, now, Divine Mercy Parish.  Helen’s love for her family was paramount, and she cherished the many trips she took to the New Jersey and Florida beaches.  She was a forward-thinker; always educating herself on health and nutrition.

Her family extends their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff of Hospice of The Sacred Heart for their kindness and compassion during Helen’s final days.

Helen is survived by her seven children: John and wife, Maureen, of Vestal, N.Y.; Karen, of Scranton; Mary Theresa Wylie, of Chadds Ford; Michael and wife, Janet, of Dickson City; Thomas and wife, Patty, of Lake Ariel; Michele Ross and husband, Frank, of Towamencin; and Jennifer Meyer and husband, James, of Bridgewater, N.J. She also leaves behind 22 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; a sister, Mary Gower, of Rockville, M.D.; a brother Jerome and wife, Nancy Walsh, of Scranton; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Helen’s legacy is one of faith, love, strength, and an enduring curiosity about the world.  She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.  May she rest in peace.

A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Saturday at 10:00 AM in Divine Mercy Parish, 312 Davis Street in Scranton, to be con-celebrated by Rev. Paul McDonnell, Pastor, and Bishop Jeffrey Walsh, Helen’s godson. Burial, Italian-American Cemetery in Scranton. Those attending the funeral are asked to go directly to church.

Family and friends may pay their respects on Friday between 4-7:00 PM at the Thomas P Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street in Old Forge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Helen’s name to Hospice of the Sacred Heart c/o 30 E.D. Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic, PA 18507.