Waterville – Helen Simon Ballew, 88, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt, died at her Waterville home with family at her side on Friday June 29, 2018. She was born in Waterville on September 30, 1929, a daughter of Najabee (Nazeber) and Sam Simon. She attended local schools and graduated from Waterville High School where she was active in school sports. Soon after graduation, she enlisted in the US Air Force, and while stationed at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, she met the love of her life, John A. Ballew. They were married in March of 1953 and returned to Waterville where they resided all of their married life.
Helen’s family describes her as the definition of “homemaker” in her devotion to her family. She truly doted on her family, lovingly serving them, caring for them, and helping them in any way that she could. Her children’s friends were always welcome in her home, and she would do for them just like they were her own.
Helen is also described using words like feisty, strong willed, stubborn when need be (almost always), a woman of her word, and a really good Mom. An avid Red Sox fan, Helen did her best to never miss a televised game! Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she attended their sporting and school events any chance she could. She was especially pleased to have two great grandchildren as well.
She is survived by her three children: Dr. David Ballew and his wife Sonia of Clinton; Dyan Ballew of Waterville; John Ballew and his wife Gina of Fairfield Center; her five grandchildren: Kevin Ballew; Corey Ballew and his wife Janie; Erin Ballew; Ethan Ballew; Clay Ballew; her two great-grandchildren: Connor Ballew and Cara Ballew; her two sisters: Mae Burgess and Sandra Chase; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband John A. Ballew in June of 2016.
Per Helen’s request there will be no services. A private burial for her and her husband will be in the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Augusta. Please visit www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to share condolences, memories and tributes with her family.
For those who wish, donations in Helen’s memory may be made to: Humane Society of Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, ME 04901 or to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Attn: Memorial/Honor Program, PO Box 1000, Dept. 300, Memphis, TN 38148-0552
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