(St. George, UT) - Helene almost made it to age 87, but passed away on March 31st with her family, 11 days shy of her birthday, which she would have celebrated today. Always an eternal optimist, Helene lived as she died, full of hope and love for everyone. She lived a full life surrounded by a loving family and good friends. She touched all with whom she came in contact.

Born April 11, 1925, in Paris, Idaho, she was the daughter of Earl and Jhoun Chugg Shepherd. She moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where she discovered her interest and occupation in the world of merchandising and fashion. She worked and modeled for San Francisco’s finest stores.

Helene married Robert E. Westfall on May 10, 1964. After they both retired, they moved to St. George, Utah, where they enjoyed many years of happiness together. Helene loved to visit local convalescent hospitals to cheer up the patients, walk the Temple grounds and mall for exercise, and because she was an avid reader, would regularly go to the St. George Library for books.

Helene was one of the most charitable people with both her time, thoughtfulness, and energy, and was friendly to everyone, especially those in need of a visit, a warm hand, or a kind word.

Helene is preceded in death by her husband Robert and her two brothers Joseph and Phillip Shepherd. She is survived by her three daughters: Tonya Whelan Giusso (Gary), Suzette Whelan, and Lisa Kyle Westfall-Davis (Michael), all of Northern California; seven grandchildren: Shannon, Jennie, Antonio, Hazel, Georgia, Michaela, and Raven; three great-grandchildren: Autumn, Nathan, and Brandon; and three sisters: Winona Percy (Torrance, CA), Ramona Adams (SLC & St. George) and Au-Deane Cowley (Dammeron Valley).

Helene will be interred at the Santa Barbara Cemetery alongside her husband Robert. Another celebration of her life will take place on the Pacific Coast of Mendocino County where two of her daughters reside.

Donations in Helene’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105. The family wants to give special thanks to those who helped Helene in her last days. A Gentle Touch Home Care, Vanessa Tom, Andrew Rider, Rocky Mountain Home Care and Hospice, Paul Cochran, Grey Yates, Justin Bandley, Garna Tinsley, The Bosland family, Diane Bernard, her hairdresser Jackie and Metcalf Mortuary.