Helen M. (Peabody) Spinney, age 104 of Port St. Lucie, FL, formerly of Lynn, MA, passed away on April 18, 2025 in Virginia Beach, VA after a lengthy illness. Helen was born and raised in Lynn, MA. She was the wife of the late Paul N. Spinney, her husband of 68 years and the love of her life. Helen was also predeceased by her parents, Lucy A. (Jowders) and Frederick N. Peabody, her sisters, Olga (Peabody) Barton and Alice Peabody, and a brother Frederick N. Peabody Jr.

She was a graduate of Lynn English High School, class of 1940. She worked at the Sylvania Plant until her marriage in 1946 when she became a homemaker and raised three children. After her children were older, Helen worked as an assistant at Tiny Tots Preschool at St. Paul’s Church in Lynn and later received her real estate broker’s license and worked for a short time in that capacity. She later worked in the main office at Bay State Beverage in Lynn for a number of years.

Growing up, Helen was a gifted dancer. She took lessons in tap, toe, and ballet for about ten years. She performed at venues in Boston and surrounding areas under the tutelage of her dance instructor who referred to her as her “most prized pupil” and kept many pictures of her displayed in the dance studio. Helen continued her love of dancing throughout her life, rarely missing weekly line dancing at the La Buona Vita clubhouse.

In 1992, she and Paul moved from Lynn to Port St. Lucie, FL where they adapted easily to their new home, friends, and climate. There, Helen continued her love of social activity; her enjoyment of card and board games; and the challenge of puzzles of all kinds.

Helen was active in many groups and organizations, including the First Christian Church of Lynn, the Rebecca Lodge, and the Goldfish Pond Association. She also served the community of Lynn by working the polls during elections. After moving to Florida, she was active in the Jensen Beach Community Church, and she served on many committees to support her La Buona Vita community.

Helen was a master seamstress, knitter, and crocheter; she made everything from curtains and bedspreads to suits and coats. She was also accomplished at completing alterations of any kind for her family, friends and neighbors. Helen was always giving of her time to help others, and she was appreciated and loved by all who knew her for her generosity and kindness.

Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters; Paula A. Tortolini of Virginia Beach, VA , and Jane S. and her husband William G. Phillips, also of Virginia Beach, VẠ: a son, Norman F. Spinney and his wife Susan S. Spinney of Port St. Lucie, FL; five grandchildren: Brandon Tortolini, Conrad Phillips, Logan McLeod, Jake Spinney, and Grace Spinney; and three great grandchildren: Angelo Tortolini, Braxton McLeod, and Lyla McLeod. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their appreciation to the staff at Amedisys Hospice and Westminster Canterbury in-home care for providing support during the past year.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Amedisys Hospice, 814 Greenbrier Circle, Suite F Chesapeake VA, 23320.

A private graveside service will be held in Massachusetts at a later date.