Helen Elizabeth (Joy) Taylor was born June 26, 1932, in Rockville Centre, N.Y., to Helen Elizabeth (Mitschell) and Vincent James Joy. She graduated from Sewanhaka High School (National Honor Society) and worked civil service as an executive secretary at the County of Nassau Department of Public Works.

On August 14, 1952, she married the love of her life, Abram Russel (Russ) Taylor. After Russ finished his service in the Air Force, they lived in Freeport, N.Y., until 1970, when they bought the old Elm House in Naples, Me., and started a self-sufficient farm. On the farm, they raised their own vegetables and meat, and heated the 100-year- old farm house with wood. They raised sheep and had a summer ‘Wool n Art’ shop that sold hand-knit wool sweaters, hats and vests, wooden toys, and paintings. Later in life, she would say, “I’ll always be a New Yorker, but wouldn’t live any place but Maine.”

Helen and Russ lived an artistic life creating a loving, nurturing and peaceful family lifestyle. Her life was centered around her husband, children and grandchildren. She was an accomplished artist and enjoyed the beach, reading, volunteering and exercise.

She lost her beloved husband after 51 wonderful years of marriage in 2003.

On Saturday, September 12, 2020, Helen was finally able to join Russ when she passed away peacefully at Bridgton Hospital surrounded by the love of her family.

She passes her enduring love to her surviving children and grandchildren: Jennie (Bruce) Silverblade of Naples, Me., Russel (Dena) Taylor of Standish, and Lyn (Steve) Hennigar of Rye, N.H.; and grandchildren, Tyler Silverblade, Max Silverblade, Bree Taylor, Daniel (Jackie Woynar) Hennigar, Stephen (Claire Berryman) Hennigar and Nick (Holly) Hennigar.

For those considering an expression of sympathy, please do something kind for others or show appreciation for those who make you happy in life.

Cremation arrangements were in the care of the Hall Funeral Home, 165 Quaker Ridge Road in Casco, where her family welcomes your kind words at www.hallfuneralhome.net.