Obituary of Helen Theresa McCaffrey

Helen McCaffrey, of East Meadow, N.Y., a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away on January 16, 2023 at the age of 95, surrounded by her family members. Helen was born on October 21, 1927 in Brooklyn, N.Y. to Thomas and Rose (nee Boyle) McCaffrey who emigrated from counties Tyrone and Donegal, Ireland.

Helen loved her Irish heritage and was often heard driving with her Irish music blasting, much to the chagrin of her grandchildren. She was known for her fashion flair and many hats at the N.Y. Supreme Court in Mineola where she retired as a senior court clerk in 1992. Helen dabbled in acting in her later years, playing Nel in the Thomas Davis Irish Players version of “The Field” and playing an extra in some well known movies and television shows. She once bristled at being cast as an old lady as she viewed herself as forever young and exuded that attitude even as she advanced in years. Her spunk and independence served her well and she will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Helen is survived by her children: Jane Butler, William and Owen Manico; her grandchildren: Katherine, Andrew Butler, Andrew Manico and Delilah; her brother Daniel and her many nieces and nephews. She will be reunited in heaven with her son Richard, her parents and her siblings: Rosemarie, Owen, Reverend Patrick and two siblings who passed early in childhood. 

Helen’s life will be celebrated at a funeral Mass on March 25, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Church of St.Aidan, 505 Willis Ave. Williston Park, N.Y.