Cover photo for Mary Helene Lindsay's Obituary
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In Memory Of
Mary Helene Lindsay
1933 2015

Mary Helene Lindsay

November 11, 1933 — January 2, 2015

ALBANY-Mary Helene Lindsay (nee Schafer), 81, entered into eternal life on January 2, 2015. A lifelong Albanian, she is survived by her husband Martin Allen, sons Christopher A.(former daughter-in-law Nancy), Thomas D. (Christine) and Paul R. (Jenifer), and eight grandchildren; Callie, Mackenzie, Barbara, Theresa, John and Duncan Lindsay, and Dylan and Allison Lockrow-Lindsay also by siblings Estelle Coulter, Howard D, Schafer Jr. (Caroline), and Katherine McArdle.

Helene graduated from the Vincentian Institute and College of Saint Rose. Employed by the Albany School District as an elementary teacher, she served as a remedial teacher in city public schools, and under various grants, in private schools and other institutions. For some years, her "office" was a group of tote bags kept in her car trunk.

She was always active in community organizations including the Cub Scouts, National Little League; the churches of St. Theresa and St. Catherine (now Mater Christi); St. Rose Alumnae, the Five Rivers Center, Albany Area Retired Teachers, and A.S.O. Vanguard. In several of these she specialized in hospitality and friendship services.

Helene was a wonderful wife and mother. She welcomed to her home (and often fed) a whole neighborhood of children. She was very caring of her husband and family, especially of his father, Marty, in his years as a widower. She had many close friends and neighbors, and particularly valued the company of Debbie McHugh, whom she regarded as a daughter.

Helene was a low-key leader, respected by her co-workers. She got things done efficiently, without fanfare. She was recognized for her contributions by organizations as varied as a pop music venue and the Friends of Five Rivers. She was a strong supporter of Allen's chorus, the Mendelssohn Club and of her children and grandchildren's many activities.

Helene loved the outdoors and enjoyed vacationing, especially on Cape Cod and in the Adirondacks. Whether in casual or more formal settings she was a classically styled dresser who always looked good, even in later illnesses. Though she suffered much during her last two years, she did her best to keep the cheerful disposition she was known for. We will miss her, but are happy that she has gone to a heavenly reward.

During Helene's final months, the assistance, comfort, and care of her longtime friend Karole Doyle was invaluable, as were visits and calls from neighbors and friends. The family also wishes to thank the staff of NYOH and Memorial Hospital for the fine and concerned care they provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Helene's memory may be made to The Friends of Five Rivers, 56 Game farm Rd., Delmar, NY 12054.

Calling hours will be held from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, January 7, 2015 at New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie, NY.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 AM on Thursday, January 8, 2015 at the Parish of Mater Christi, 40 Hopewell St. Albany, NY 12208.

Interment will be at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Waterford, NY.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mary Helene Lindsay, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

4:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)

New Comer Cremations & Funerals

343 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205

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Service

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Starts at 9:30 am (Eastern time)

St. Albany

, Albany, NY

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