Age 96, died in the Halifax Infirmary, QEII, Halifax on June 13, 2021. Born in Kentville, she was the daughter of the late James and Eva (Ryan) Balch. She entered the Sisters of Charity-Halifax in 1950 and made her First Profession in 1953. Sister Helen studied at Mack Business College in Kentville, where she received her Stenographer’s Diploma. Sister Helen was an alumnae of Mount Saint Vincent University, receiving her Bachelor of Arts and her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. Sister began her ministry, teaching elementary school and music in New York then returned to teach in Halifax and Shad Bay. Sister Helen used her business training in the Financial and Secretarial offices at the Halifax Infirmary, Mount Saint Vincent DePaul Centre and Pax Provincial House. Throughout her life Sister Helen always made time beyond her ministries to care for the sick, elderly, poor and those marginalized by society. She served in pastoral ministry, tutored in adult literacy and was an active member of the Saint Vincent DePaul Society. Sister Helen was a beautiful poet. Many have been honoured to hear her recite her poems by memory with great enthusiasm and passion. Her most memorable piece titled “The Journey Home” was a well-loved favourite. Sister Helen was an avid joke teller and always had a new joke or riddle to share. She was especially grateful for the kindness of others, anyone visiting her or helping her in any way would be greeted with “well aren’t you kind”. In addition to her parents, Sister Helen was predeceased by her sisters, Emily Marks and Margorie McSweeney; and is survived by her nieces, Mary and Colleen McSweeney; and great niece, Jill McSweeney-Flaherty. A burial service will be held in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lower Sackville. Due to the Provincial COVID-19 restrictions, a Funeral Mass will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of Charity Ministry Fund.