Helena was born in Lisbon, and came to London in 1965 to live, initially with her uncle and aunt at the Portuguese Consulate, whilst improving her English and working at TAP on reservations.
She met Philip in August 1967, and married in September 1969.
Rebecca was born in 1972.
Helena was a most gregarious person, always enjoying a good chat, and often caused controversy with her strongly held views on a range of subjects. She was very knowledgeable about history, particularly European history.
Helena had a well deserved reputation as a fine cook and baker until her later years, serving scrumptious meals to family and friends on many joyous occasions.
Although professing to have a bad memory, this was definitely not the case, as she always remembered the names and anniversary dates for her friends and their family, as well as her own.
She particularly enjoyed playing bridge, both socially with several circles of friends, and with Philip in some competitions and charity events.
She loved traveling and seeing different countries and cultures.
She was active as a member of Bristol Corona and the English Speaking Union, and supported several charities.
She will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her.