Helen L. (Costello) Hughes passed away at her home in Melrose on March 20th, after a lengthy illness, she was 88. Helen was born and raised in Norwood, graduated from Norwood High School and Boston Business School. She worked for Plymouth Rubber Company during WWII in the payroll division and then as a clerk for Jordan Marsh Company in the Malden store from 1966 to 1981. Helen was a resident of Melrose since 1956, was a longtime member of St. Mary's Church, a member of the Ladies Sodality and did volunteer work at St. Mary's Rectory for several years. She was a former member of the Melrose Women's Club and an avid bridge player. Helen was the wife of the late Ernest G. Hughes. Mother of Robert E. Hughes & his wife Virginia of VA, Patricia E. Hughes of Melrose and John E. Hughes & his wife Miraflor of RI. Sister of the late Edward Costello. Grandmother of Joshua Hughes, Rachael Hughes, John E. Hughes Jr. and Patrick Hughes. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose, on Wed. March 24th at 8AM. Funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, Herbert St. Melrose, at 9AM. Relatives and friends invited. Visitsing hours Tues. 3-8PM. Burial in Wyoming Cemetery Melrose. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's Church Vision 2000, 46 Myrtle St. Melrose 02176.