Helen was born in Damariscotta, the fourth child of Mark and Hilda Libby. Her independence, curiosity and determination were born of her early years spent exploring the tidepools of Johns Bay, leaping from the Hilda and Helen into New Harbor, playing piano, and torturing her brothers. And along the way emerged the infectious smile, laugh, adventurous spirit, and optimism that graced all who knew her.
She moved to New York in her mid-teens, began college there, married, and had a son. But Maine kept calling her back, and she returned to raise three more children in Whitefield, Liberty, and on Freedom Pond. Among the many ventures she explored, she managed a plumbing and heating business; owned a custom quilt shop; typeset manuscripts; and was a hearing reporter. Her deep belief in alternative healing led her to become a Reiki Master, a Reflexologist, and do Reconnective Healing under the business name of “A Touch of Hope”. Most recently she worked for LL Bean as a Product Specialist, a Trainer, and a Job Coach. She treasured the challenges of problem solving for customers, and through word and deed encouraging others to be their very best.
She lived always on the verge of breaking into dance, as if the joy and excitement within her would burst forth if she didn’t move. Her license plates were just as expressive, “ULIVE1X” and “BEHAPPI”, teaching us that there is no path to happiness; happiness is the path. She was a quiet convener, gathering people to her to share in celebration of life, reveling in the chaos and laughter. She would tell us all to quickly get through the grieving process…and dance!
She is survived by her beloved, Brooke
Barnes of Harpswell; four children, Andrew Ray and his wife Emily of Sanbornton NH; Mark Ray and his wife Catie of Searsmont; Kara Ray and her partner Mark Savage of Washington; and Samual Ray and his wife Jordan of Liberty; and she was “Mimi” to Halle, Bennett, Lachlan, and Gracelyn. Also her mother, Hilda Findlay of Aberdeenshire, Scotland; her three brothers, Mark Libby of New Harbor, Jonathan Libby of Portland, and Matthew Libby of Unity; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Helen’s life will be held in the spring in New Harbor.
Donations in Helen’s memory may be made the to the Make-A-Wish Foundation at maine.wish.org or
Make-A-Wish Maine
477 Congress Street, Suite M1
Portland, ME 04101
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.FuneralAlternatives.n et.
Arrangements are under the care of Funeral Alternatives, 155 Bath Rd. Brunswick.
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