Helen G. MacDonald died after a long illness at EPOC Nursing Home in Melrose April 1st at the age of 96. She was born in Gloucester, raised in Rockport, lived most of her life in Rockport, Reading for 20yrs and Melrose for many years. Helen worked as a secretary for Riverside Press Co., American Industrial Development Council of Boston and Cape Cod Gas. Co.for several years. She also worked as a nurses aid at Robert Brent Brigham Hospital. Helen worked with the garden clubs on both the North & South Shores promoting tree planting through out those communities. She was also a strong supporter for the dedicated teachers in many communities and was very active in youth work through out her life. She was the daughter of the late William J. & Alice (Moore) MacDonald. Sister of the late Anna Maxwell. Cousin of Ann & Elizabeth Cahill of Brighton and Judith Schroeder of Essex. Funeral service at the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Wed. April 4th at 11:30 AM. Relatives and friends invited. Visiting hours will be held prior to the funeral service on Wed. morning from 10:30 - 11:30 am. Memorial contributions may be made in Helen's memory to Schepen's Eye Research Institute 20 Staniford St. Boston 02114 or Boystown of Italy 250 E. 63rd St. Suite 208 NY NY 10021. Burial in Beech Grove Cemetery in Rockport.