Helen Margaret Lee

Born in Indianapolis on October 12, 1934, she was the daughter of Roger Risley and Ruby (Messersmith) Risley, and the last surviving sibling of sisters Francis (Patty) and Eloise, and brothers James, Richard, and Joseph. Helen graduated from Moral Township School in 1952 and from Franklin College in 1956 with a B.S. in Education. She earned her M.S. in Education from Indiana University in 1969.

Helen married Joseph C. Lee on June 9, 1956, in Franklin, Indiana. She devoted 33 years to teaching special education, working primarily in Franklin Township where she was invested in her student's development. She was a longtime member of Nativity Catholic Church.

Helen is survived by her daughters Ann (Wayne) Vilchuck of Batavia, Illinois; Laura Schwarz of Indianapolis, Indiana; and Patti (Kris) Klos of Medford, Massachusetts; as well as six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph C. Lee (2011), and her son, John (1983.)

A time for friends and family to gather will be held at Little & Sons Funeral Home, Stop 11 Road Chapel, the evening prior, Thursday, June 11, 2026 from 3:00pm- 7:00pm.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am Friday, June 12, 2026 at Nativity Catholic Church: 7225 Southeastern Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46239.

Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 435 West Troy Avenue, Indianapolis, IN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the John Lee Memorial Scholarship Fund, Blue River Community Foundation, 54 West Broadway, Suite 1, Shelbyville, IN 46176.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff of Franciscan Hospice Care for their exceptional skill, compassion, and support, and for helping ensure that Helen’s final days were peaceful and comfortable.