Helena F. Ruane died on July 19, 2022 at the age of 91. Born and raised in Salem, Massachusetts, Helena was an avid New England sports fan. She was a graduate of Salem Hospital School of Nursing and was proud of her career assisting with delivering babies.  She also thoroughly enjoyed the political life with her husband, U.S. State Representative of 30 years, J. Michael Ruane.

Even in her later years, Helena had a wonderful sense of humor and an extremely loving heart.  She loved walking and sitting in the sun, drinking a Pearl Harbor, eating coffee ice cream with chocolate sauce, reminiscing about her life in Salem, listening to music, watching sports on TV, and receiving photos of her great-granddaughter.

Helena was predeceased by her husband, her 2 sons, Michael Ruane and Patrick Ruane, and her daughter Christine Ruane.  During her final years of declining health, Helena was surrounded by the love of her grandchildren, Michael C. Ruane and Alyssa Ruane Alexander, her great-granddaughter, Adriana, her nieces and extended family.  The family is extremely grateful to the compassionate care provided by the staff of Village at Willow Crossing in Mansfield, Massachusetts, Maples Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Wrentham, Massachusetts, and Hope Hospice. Arrangements were held privately.