After a courageous battle with Alzheimer's, the death of Helen Jean Monahan, age 78, wife of Murray J, Monahan, of Norton, NB, occurred on Monday, September 12, 2011. She was born on July 20, 1933, in New Westminster, BC. Most of us never end up with the life we dream of, but what is obvious about Helen Monahan is she did just that. Not so many years ago Helen’s diary from her high school years was found and contained a surprising heart warming entry. In her own words written New Year’s Eve in her last entry of 1951…"I never thought this year would turn out like it did, I’m glad it did though. I couldn’t have asked for anyone nicer than Murray. He is my whole life. Now as long as I have him I don’t need anything else. At this time next year I hope to be married. So long 1951"… Helen and Murray were married August 8, 1952. Those who knew her were inevitable changed by her love. She was a great friend and neighbor, always willing to lend a hand or do for others when ever called upon. Her life was spent in Norton, NB, where she was the past President of the Norton Legion, a member of the Norton Women’s Institute and a member of the Norton Legion Auxiliary. Helen was the type of person that always put others needs ahead of her own. It was of the utmost importance to her that those around her be happy and comfortable before she gave her own comfort any thought. Anyone who had the pleasure of visiting her home can testify to the fact that you would be offered a friendly welcome and a cup of tea and a lunch at her kitchen table. You can also likely testify that you weren’t going to get out of there without eating something. Helen loved to see people enjoying her wonderful cooking. While it will be difficult to imagine life with out Helen, we know that we will forever be able to cling to the wonderful memories that we have and that she will be watching over us. Helen is survived by her husband Murray, of 59 years, that as she said herself "was her whole life". She is a loving mother and mother-in-law to sons James and Heather Monahan of Cambridge-Narrows and Donnie Monahan of Calgary, AB. She is the most precious grandmother to Andrew, Jennifer, Sarah, Shannon, Devon, Jason and great grandmother to Marli and Rylan. Also survived by her sister Marge Paton of British Columbia; brothers John, Louie, Harold and his wife Jean, all of BC; several nieces, nephews and cousin. Helen’s family will receive visitors at Sherwood’s Funeral Home and Life Tribute Centre (506-839-2156), 18 Scovil Road, Norton, NB, on Friday from 3 to 5 and 6 to 8 pm. A Celebration Service of Helen’s life, conducted by Doug Cosman, will be held from Sherwood’s Chapel, at 11:00 am, on Saturday, September 17, 2011. Interment will follow in the Midland Cemetery. Donations in memory of Helen, may be made to the memorial of donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family may be made through www.sherwoodsfuneralhome.com