Helen Jean Lindley died on May 4, 2012 in Billings, MT. She was born on August 20, 1930 in Bromley, Kent, England, to Leopold and Marguerite Cannar. She grew up in the same area, a suburb of London. During World War II this was on the route that enemy planes took to reach London, and the family house was damaged twice during air raids. A lot of her schooling was done in air raid shelters. After the war she attended Bromley Art College, and her artistic talent was evident in her many works.
In 1949 she met Peter, her husband of almost 59 years, at a tennis club. In 1953 they were married in Bromley and lived in the London area for several years. They had three children: Jean, Claire, and David. The family lived in England until 1967, when they immigrated to the United States and settled in Pennsylvania. Helen adapted well to life in the USA and became a citizen in 1976. The family enjoyed camping every year in different parts of the country, and Helen particularly loved the west, where the family eventually settled.
The most important thing to Helen was to raise, love, and care for her family. She never wanted to be in the limelight, but she was a pillar of strength in the background for Pete and her children. She was loving, kind, and always put the needs of others ahead of her own. Helen overcame some very difficult times in her life, including the trauma of WWII, the death of her son, and chronic health problems, yet she faced adversity with grace, strength, and her quiet heroism.
In 1980, Helen received the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior, and endeavored to serve Him through the rest of her life. She was a true example of a loving and caring Christian, and touched the hearts of many people.
Helen is survived by her husband, Peter of Miles City, MT, two daughters, Jean Lindley (Jack McNamee) of Miles City, MT and Claire Lindley of Littleton, CO, sister Jill (Stephen) Garrish of Warnham, England, six grandchildren, five great grandchildren and five nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her son, David, and her parents.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Open Doors USA, an organization that ministers to persecuted Christians worldwide. Contact them at www.opendoorsusa.org or PO Box 27001, Santa Ana, CA 92799.
Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at 11:00 am at Valley Drive Baptist Church in Miles City, MT. Condolences may be sent to www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday May 9, 2012
Valley Drive Baptist Church
1004 N. Sewell
Miles City, MT 59301
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday May 9, 2012
Valley Drive Baptist Church
1004 N. Sewell
Miles City, MT 59301
Pastor Bruce Oyen says
Dear family of Helen,
We did not know Helen well. But whenever we visited a Valley Drive Baptist Church service, she was always kind and friendly, by which she showed us the love of Jesus Christ. May the Lord bless you with grace and peace at this time.
Linda Losinski says
so sorry about your Mom. I’m sure you will miss her.
Danielle McWilliams says
McNamee Family,
We are so terribly sorry for your loss! Let us know if there is anything we can do for you guys! You are all in our thoughts and prayers!
Danielle, Curtis, and Kaisen
Cathy/Joe Donnelly says
Eventhough I didn’t know Mrs. Lindley really well, when I think of her the word “gracious” comes to mind. In the dictionary it states the meaning as “showing kindness or mercy; polite, charming! Very good description of her I would say. Glad she is at peace now. Love to you all.
Jerry and Peggy Stanley says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Henke Family says
Dear Jean and family:
We are sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts are with you.
Jim & Robin Cusimano says
Dear Jean,
We are sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Denise Harvey says
I am so sorry for your loss. A mother’s love is always cherished and missed.
Bill And Jody Wallick says
We are sorry to hear of the loss of your mother, You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Cindy and Kelly Conley says
Jean and family – we are so sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers.
Jim & Judy Hufford says
Jean: So saddened to learn of your mother’s passing.
May God surround you with his love now and in the days ahead. Jim & Judy Hufford
Marjorie Rhoads says
How wonderful to have had your mama for such a generous length of life. May your memories of her love and kindness comfort you in the hard times of grieving ahead. I look at her picture here and see you looking out. You have a been given a magical legacy from her – I can see that. A mother’s life is never long enough. Our sincere best during this time for your and your family Jean. Marjorie, Doos Doon, and Little Girl.
Kathy Marks says
Jean and family: We are never prepared to lose our mothers but may you find comfort in your memories. My thoughts are with you all.
Lois Garliech says
Claire, please know all of your friends in Colorado are with you in spirit today at this difficult time. I know you will miss your Mom terribly. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Shannon & Bryan Holmen says
Dear Jean,
So sorry to hear of your mum. Didn’t know she was from England. I’m sure she was a wonderful person. Our prayers to you and your family.
Niki Munroe says
Jean, so sorry to hear about your mom. We are keeping you in our thoughts.
Munroe Family
Greg,Michelle&Charlie Johnston says
Jean and Jack Sorry to hear about your mother.