Obituary - Helen McFadden Huffard

Helen McFadden Huffard, 90, of Glen Allen, Virginia—devoted wife and mother, affectionately known as “Mom-Mom” to her grandchildren, lifelong learner and spreader of joy—passed away on June 25, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Preceded in death by her parents and by her beloved son Dana Allen Huffard, Helen’s legacy lives on through her daughters Cynthia Huffard Richards (Michael) and Teresa Kim Flaherty; and through her eight cherished grandchildren: Shaun Flaherty (Jessie), Mary Catherine Sabey (Eric), Joseph Tulick, Corey Stockdale, Sara Maggio (Stephen), Russell Richards, Mary Kathryn Richards, and Natalie Richards—each of whom carries forward her sense of humor and boundless heart.

Born to James Frederick McFadden and Sara Wilson McFadden, Helen felt called to serve others from an early age. She answered that call at the University of Maryland School of Nursing, graduating in the program’s first baccalaureate class, and spent years as a beloved labor and delivery nurse, guiding countless families through their first moments together. Eager to care for the whole person, she later earned a Master’s in Pastoral Counseling from Loyola College and opened a private practice where her clinical insight was matched only by her compassion.

Her laugh was infectious, and her smile left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Helen delighted in keeping up with friends, writing letters to her family, time at the beach and watching sunsets in Marco Island. She loved to travel, Sudoku puzzles, catalog shopping and Christian music. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her grandchildren. Family traditions including Sunday night dinners, were where many memories were made, and will be continued through the legacy she and Bill created.

You can’t think of Helen without her loyal and dedicated husband of nearly 69 years. Helen and Bill met on a blind date at the University of Maryland, and were married on August 18, 1956. Helen was by Bill’s side as he traveled for Veterinary school, and eventually helped to open Huffard Animal Hospital in Severna Park, Maryland. Helen and Bill spent the majority of their married life raising their children on Longvue Farm in Pasadena, Maryland. They had a strong Faith and were active members in the life of Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church. Later, the moved to Virginia, and became “snowbirds,” with a winter home in Punta Gorda, Florida, which they enjoyed until 2019 when they settled down to be close to Cindy’s family in Glen Allen, Virginia. 

A celebration of Helen’s life will take place on Monday, July 7, 2025 at Christ Church Episcopal (5000 Pouncey Tract Road, Glen Allen, VA 23059) at 11:30 a.m.. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends perform an act of quiet kindness—pay for someone’s coffee, visit a new mother, or simply watch a sunset at the shore—and think of Helen. If you feel called to donate to a worthy cause in Helen’s honor, donations can be made to the Bon Secours Richmond Healthcare Foundation for expansion efforts at the Richmond Hope Therapy Center, which Cindy founded. Helen was so proud of Cindy’s work helping children with special needs. Donations can be made via the Bon Secours Richmond Healthcare foundation, at this link HERE .