Obituary of Helen McGregor

“How lucky we are to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

With heartfelt sadness we regret to announce the recent passing of our family’s “Saint Helen” on the evening of Monday, September 16th, 2024. 

Helen spent her final moments surrounded by the love of her family in the compassionate care of the Grove Nursing Home in Arnprior.

Helen McGregor (nee Hanrahan) was the beloved wife of the late Jack McGregor, cherished mom of Jacqueline Ryan (Patrick), Perry McGregor (Michelle), Stacey McGregor (Lisa), and Tania Pilon (Denis) and treasured granny of John, Joel, and Hannah Ryan, Griffin, Stella, and Gage McGregor, Nolan, Payton, Taryn, and Kaden McGregor, Hally, Carter, and Brooke Pilon. She was predeceased by her parents, Tom and Hannah Hanrahan (nee Bolger) and her mother-in-law, Lucie McGregor (nee Laporte). She is the dear sister of the late Marie Hanrahan (late Homer Haggarty), Frances Vallieres (late John), and James Hanrahan and loved sister-in-law of Joy Quattrocchi (John), Terry McGregor (Pat), Larry McGregor (Sandra), and the late Kenny McGregor (Diane). She is also lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, friends, former colleagues, and students.

When we reflect on Helen’s 85 years, themes of education, faith, and family prevail. She was an elementary school teacher for 47 years and spent the majority of time teaching kindergarten at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Arnprior. She was also very committed to her faith as a devout Roman Catholic who actively contributed to her local parish. In her retirement, she took on the role of president of the Catholic Women’s League in Arnprior. Above all else, Helen’s family was her everything. She packed her calendar hosting gatherings, attending events, and supporting the interests of her loved ones. Helen used any excuse to hop in her car to meet with family and friends. When the day was done, she loved to enjoy a cold Pepsi (in a can with a straw!) and cheer on her beloved Ottawa Senators. Helen’s patience, graceful poise, and smile will always be remembered by those who knew her.

Helen’s final arrangements have been entrusted to the Pilon Family Funeral Home and Chapel Ltd., 50 John Street North, Arnprior. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 19th from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm and Friday September 20th from 9:30 am to 10:15 am. Members of the CWL will assemble at the funeral home for prayers on Thursday afternoon at 4:45. Friday’s visitation will be followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St. John Chrysostom Church in Arnprior. A reception will be held immediately following Mass in the Parish Hall followed by interment at St. Francis Xavier Parish Cemetery in Renfrew.

A special thank you to Dr. Fishman and to the staff of Aspira Island View, the Arnprior District & Memorial Hospital, and the Grove Nursing Home for your admirable care.

During our mother’s illness, the transportation services offered by the Arnprior, Braeside and McNab Seniors at Home Program were particularly appreciated as they enabled her to still participate in her favorite activities such as family dinners, holiday celebrations, and watching her grandchildren’s hockey games! In memory of Helen, please consider donating to this incredible organization to help others remain connected with their families.