Helen L. (Burke) McNeil

WORCESTER – Helen L. (Burke) McNeil, 64, of Worcester, died on Friday, May 12, 2023 at UMass Memorial – University Campus after complications from cancer treatments.

She leaves a son, Scott C. McNeil and his wife Erin of Milford, a brother, John Burke of North Carolina, a sister, Joan Burke, a sister-in-law, Teresa Burke of West Boylston; her best friend and companion of 27 years, Ralph Mendes of Florida; nieces and nephews Joan Marie Wells of Revere, Maura McCormack of Franklin, Jeff Dudley of Foxborough, and Rachel Crouse of West Boylston; three grandchildren, Kelsie, Keagan, and Kinley of Milford and many great-nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by a brother, Robert Burke, a sister, Mary Ellen Dudley, and a nephew, Ryan Burke.  She was born in Walpole, MA, daughter of the late John and Helen (Cleary) Burke.

Helen held numerous roles over her career, highlighted by her years of service at UPS in operations and sales for Central Mass.  She was an active member of the Triumph of Life church in the greater Worcester area.  

She enjoyed holidays with family, a good book on the couch, and especially playing with her grandchildren.  She found great joy in being a caretaker to family and friends. When not in Worcester, Helen always enjoyed trips to Onset and time near the ocean.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, May 17, 2023 from 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm with a prayer service at 5:30 pm at Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave, Worcester.  Burial will be private.  In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in Helen's memory to the UMass Memorial NICU (https://donate.umassmemorial.org).