Bonnie A. Helms

Bonnie A. Helms June 17, 2015 Portland - On June 17, Bonnie A. Helms, 73 of Portland, passed away from an infection after a brief illness. Born in Holton, Maine to Harold Helms and Doris Nelder Helms, Bonnie graduated from Presque Isle High School. A gifted student, she won a scholarship to Eastern University in Pennsylvania, where she graduated with honors in English literature. She went on to earn a Master's degree in Secondary Education from the University of Maine and a Master's in English from Middlebury College. She launched a teaching career at Millinocket High School from 1965-1968 and then went on to spend the next 34 years teaching English at Westbrook High School. After she retired in 2002, she continued to teach at Greater Portland Christian School and New England Bible College. Generations of Westbrook students learned good grammar and clear writing from Miss Helms. They feared her stern look but when they came to know her, they warmed to her dry wit and love of teaching. A life-long supporter of the arts, she championed student actors and musicians and had season tickets to local Portland theater and symphony. She published dozens of bible studies and two literature textbooks, 150 Great Books and 100 More Great Books, still in print after twenty-five years. A woman of deep Christian faith, Bonnie was an active member of First Baptist Church in Portland and the Kennebunk Baptist Church, leading bible study groups and women's retreats for over three decades. A bluestocking spinster in the grand 19th century tradition, she never married or had children of her own but enjoyed many close friendships and became a devoted godmother and adopted grandmother. Her love of travel took her to over 23 countries, which she captured in vivid travel photography. She was a life-long Red Sox fan, and finally got her wish to see a game at Fenway Park in 2004, the year they won the World Championships. She is survived by her goddaughter Linzy Brekke-Aloise, her godson-in-law Allen Aloise, and their children, Sophia and Cassandra Aloise. Calling hours will be held on Saturday July 18 from 10-11:30 at Kennebunk Baptist Church, 77 Main Street, Kennebunk with a memorial service at 11:30 and a reception to follow. To share memories and condolences with the family, please go to www.athutchins.com