Helen Frances (nee Burke) O'Keefe

It is with profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister, Helen O’Keefe (née Burke), who passed away peacefully on May 10th, 2025 at the Health Sciences Center, St. John’s, surrounded by her loving family at 88 years of age.

Helen is predeceased by her parents; Michael and Catherine (née Walsh) Burke, husband; James O’Keefe, sons; Derek and Jamie, sisters: Martha, Mary and Irene and brothers: Michael, John and Garrett.

She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory, her children: Kevin (Fern), Johnny (Madonna), Martha (Arthur), Pat, Kenneth, Sharon (Anthony), Darren (Michelle), Michael and Karen (Larry), dear sisters: Kay and Patsy, who mom loved chatting with on the phone, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Rita Burke and a large circle of nieces, nephews and friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her family doctor, Dr. Alison Hillman, as well as Dr. Ian McPherson and the compassionate doctors and staff at the Health Science Center for their care and support.

At Helen’s request, cremation has taken place. Resting at Ryan’s Funeral Home, Bay Bulls. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 15th from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sts. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, Bay Bulls on Friday, May 16th, 2025 at 11:00 am with Inurnment to follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Tors Cove. Immediately following the inurnment, a reception and celebration of life will be held at the Tors Cove Hall.

For those unable to attend, the funeral service will be livestreamed with the link available below.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tors Cove Hall – Children’s Christmas Party.  EMT can be sent to TorsCoveHall@Outlook.com, subject In Memory of Helen O’Keefe.

“Mother, we hold you close within our hearts and many conversations, and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.”

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