Ellen Teresa “Helen” Durnin

Helen Durnin (nee Carr) passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at the age of 87.

Helen is predeceased by her loving husband Larry, parents Timothy “Thade” and Catherine, brother Timothy (Maureen), sisters Margaret (the late Tom), and Patricia (the late Pete). Survived by daughters Katie (Ken), Kerry (Tim), grandchildren Shane, Quinn, Molly, Jack, Grady and Liam, sisters Mary (the late Laurie), Catherine “Kit” (the late Michael), brothers Michael (Marie), and John (Rita). She leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews and cousins in the United States, England, and Ireland.

Helen was born and raised in Kilgarvan, Lisselton, County Kerry, Ireland. She moved to England at the age of 17, and attended nursing school at Brighton General Hospital. She continued her education at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Scotland, where she earned a certificate in midwifery. She moved to San Francisco in 1958, and began her career in nursing at St. Mary’s Hospital in Labor and Delivery, remaining there until the closure of their maternity unit in 1990. She transferred to Chinese Hospital and honorably retired in 1998.

Helen was the pillar of her family and had undeniable strength, generosity, and dedication. She was devoted to her Catholic faith. Quick wit and an infectious laugh made her the life of the party. Her foot would tap and her eyes would twinkle when her favorite Irish music came on, and always, she was first up to dance. She never turned down a family celebration, a friendly debate, a cup of tea, an opportunity to help someone in need, or a chance to dote over her beloved Grandchildren. She traveled all over the United States and Canada to attend various Irish dance competitions, in support of her daughter. Summers were filled with trips to Ireland, Yosemite, or Lake Tahoe. She was a faithful fan of the Kerry Gaelic football team and 49ers, and a fierce spectator. She will be missed dearly and remembered often.

Special thanks and appreciation to Helen’s devoted caregivers: Annelyn, Jean, Virginia, Nida, Sofie and Kathy.

Family and friends are invited to visit Friday, August 27, beginning at 12pm at Duggan’s Serra Mortuary, 500 Westlake Ave., Daly City where a Funeral Service will begin at 1pm, followed by interment at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Colma.

Memorial contributions in her honor may be made to Meals on Wheels.