Helen Collier

In loving memory of

Helen Collier

July 21st, 1945 – October 4th, 2025

Helen Collier (nee Joseph), our sweetest mother, left this world on October 4th, 2025, with her children at her side.

Helen grew up in Port Alberni and belonged to the Hupacasath First Nation. She spent much of her time in Nanaimo, and this is where she raised her family. There was nothing more she loved than being a mother and she would describe the birth of her children as the proudest moments of her life. She went on to spend the rest of her time showing her children how much they meant to her.

When life brought Helen hardships and insurmountable odds, she moved through them with courage, prayer, faith, generosity, kindness, and forgiveness. And she never once stopped showing a love that was bigger than this world. She would lean into her faith for strength, and some would say she was a healer. She made people feel loved and safe, seen and appreciated. She wanted people to know that they mattered. She was often described as “the most kindest person I know”, and she knew exactly how to brighten your day. She had a fantastic sense of humor and would have us in stitches, barely being able to breath from laughing so hard. She loved to give, whether she knew you or not. And in perfect Helen style, she has left us with the most precious gift – the gift of memories, so many cute and funny memories.

Helen had many talents and delights. She enjoyed arts and crafts and was a painter. She made beautiful cedar bark roses and charming decorations. She loved music, old black and white movies, restaurants, and candy or any fabulous dessert. She loved being around people, especially children and children loved her. She would volunteer at the elementary school and had several teachers vying to get her in their class as a teacher’s aide. And she was referred to as ‘Grandma Helen’ to her entire community where she lived for the past 15 years. When Helen was younger, she enjoyed sports. She was a runner and lifted weights, and she played on both the girls’ basketball and softball teams. And we cannot forget to mention her fashionable style and all her sparkly bling.

Helen is survived by her dear children David (David R.) and Kimberly, her brother’s Danny and Gordon, and her ex-husband Alfred who she was married to for 39 years. She leaves behind beloved cousins, nieces and nephews, and a large community and extended family who loves her so much.

Helen was predeceased by her granny Martha, who had a profound impact on her life and shaped who she became, her parents Violet (Gus) and Joe (Louise), and siblings Rose and Charlie. We take comfort in knowing she is now at peace and reunited with them, as well as many of her close friends who have passed on over the years.

Mom was pure joy and light, and this is how she wanted to be remembered. In her honour, a celebration of her life will be held on November 9th, 2025 at 2:30pm at the 500 Bowen Road Auditorium in Nanaimo.

We love you forever, mom. Let us all have a Strawberry Frappuccino in your memory.