Helen M. Ahern, 79, died at Bear Hill Nursing Center Monday morning after a brief illness. Born and raised in Melrose Helen was lifelong resident. She graduated from St Mary's High School in 1941.Helen was an associate at Harvard University School of Dental Medicine where she received the Outstanding Staff Award; was presented with E. A. Baer Award by the Mass Dental Society and was on the Board of Director of D. A. N. B. E.. Helen was a parishioner of St Mary's Church and taught CCD clases.She was the daughter of the late Joseph & Catherine ( Dennehy) Ahern. Sister of Robert Ahern of Wilmington and the late Eileen McGlinchy. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home 79 W Foster St Melrose on Wednesday Aug 28 at 8 AM. Funeral Mass in St Mary's Church, corner of Herbert & Myrtle Sts, Melrose, at 9 AM. Relatives and friends invited. Visiting hours Tues 6 - 9 PM. Burial will be in St Patrick Cemetery, Stoneham. Memorial contributions may be sent to St Mary's Church Building Fund, 46 Myrtle St Melrose 02176.