WOODSTOCK, VT— Helena Parker passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025 at Woodstock Terrace. Born October 2, 1930, in Providence, RI, to Manuel and Ermilinda Silva. Helena’s zest for life and infectious smile touched all who knew her.
Helena’s love for dance was a constant throughout her life. It led to meeting her future husband, Collins Parker, at Arthur Murray Dance Studio and carried her into her final days. Collins and Helena married on February 4, 1956. They raised two children together, Roy and Sally. After initially settling in Cape Cod, the couple embarked on a new adventure – establishing Burgundy Hill Farm in Brownsville, VT. There, they raised prize-winning Herefords, horses, and a menagerie of other animals.
Helena enthusiastically supported her children’s various endeavors. She encouraged Roy’s love of little league and football and nurtured Sally’s talent as an award-winning equestrian. Her Brownsville home became a haven for family and friends, especially during lively Fourth of July celebrations. She was an integral part of the Mt. Ascutney ski community and the Green Mountain Horse Association, always sharing her love for skiing and horses with the next generations.
“Gram” cherished time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing her love for skiing, horseback riding, and dancing with each of them.
Helena is survived by her sister, Eileen Sullivan, son Roy DeCesare and his wife Nancy, daughter Sally Gottling and her husband Bill, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and dear friends Robert and Esther Allen. She was predeceased by her husband Collins, parents, brothers John and Eugene, and beloved grandson, Geoffrey. Helena’s joyful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
In memory of Helena, please consider a donation to Ascutney Outdoors, PO Box 101, Brownsville, VT 05037. Please note Helena Parker, School Ski Program with your donation.
Helena’s family would like to express their sincerest thanks to Woodstock Terrace and Bayada Home Health Care for their loving care of Helena. The family will be holding a private ceremony to celebrate Helena’s life.
An on-line guestbook can be found at cabotfh.com
