Helen Claire Lennon, 1932–2025, was ‘jovial, clever’ and ‘wonderfully funny’

Helen Claire Lennon (Mitchell), of Waltham, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025. She was 93.

Born and raised in Arlington, MA, on Apr. 24, 1932, Helen was the cherished daughter of the late John and Helen Mitchell and one of seven children. She was predeceased by her parents and all six of her siblings.

Jovial, clever, creative and wonderfully funny, Helen brought warmth, wit and laughter into every room she entered.

Helen received her education at Saint Agnes School, Saint Clement School and Regis College, where she studied English Literature—a lifelong passion that shaped her love of poetry and fine writing. Before marriage, she dedicated herself to teaching as an elementary school teacher in Roxbury, MA, nurturing young minds with patience and care.

A woman of many talents and interests, Helen loved painting and sketching, reading poetry and traveling. One of her greatest joys was taking long drives with her beloved husband, John, listening to WJIB—simple moments that became treasured memories. Her favorite song was “Lucille” and she especially loved poetry and the works of Flannery O’Connor.

Helen found her deepest happiness in her faith, her family and raising her children. She most enjoyed attending church, spending time with loved ones and being surrounded by the family she so devotedly cared for. Her favorite places included the family cottage in Green Harbor, peaceful countryside drives, Castle Island, Ireland and snowbird winters spent in Florida.

Helen lived a life rich in love, faith, creativity and devotion to family. Her gentle spirit, sharp wit and joyful presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Helen was predeceased by her beloved husband, John P. Lennon; her son, Larry; her daughter, Colleen; and her granddaughter, Katie.

Helen is survived by her four loving and devoted children and their spouses: Shawn and Cindy Lennon; Maura Lennon; Kerry and Kim Lennon; and Marty Lennon. She also leaves her cherished grandchildren and their spouses: Daniel and Kelly Lennon; Devin and Becky Richer; Cameron Richer; Aidan Richer; Brandon Lennon; and Jared Lennon. Helen was a proud great-grandmother to Connor, Jacob, Hannah, and Brady Lennon and Lili Richer. She is also survived by her son-in-law Steven Richer and her former daughter-in-law Laura Lennon, and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Family and friends are welcome to gather and celebrate Helen’s life on Tuesday morning, Jan. 6, 2026, at 10 a.m. for a mass of Christian burial at St. Agnes Church, located at 30 Medford Street, Arlington, MA. Interment will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Arlington, MA.