Ballas, Helen True
Helen (Birdie) Esther True Ballas was born in Manchester, NH on February 1, 1929. She grew up in the small, close-knit community of Greenville, RI. Birdie connected with people, made them laugh, and she “never met a stranger”.
She received her bachelor’s degree from Rhode Island College; then enjoyed a career as an elementary school teacher in Upstate New York, Norway, and Alaska. She met her husband, Arthur, at Boston University, while she was completing her master’s degree. Birdie and Art enjoyed 63 shared years that were filled with travel, reading and sharing books, ballroom dancing, and raising two daughters (Trudy and Eia) and a dog (Snoopy). Birdie enjoyed being a member of her book club in Blacksburg for 57 years. She continued to learn and change throughout her life. To the end, she loved trees.
She is survived by her husband, Arthur; daughters Trudy and Eia; and grandchildren, True and Will.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to EarthJustice https://earthjustice.org/donate/give-today
June 12, 2023 @ 11:26 am
Bird was the first person I met when I came to Blacksburg. She drove me from the airport to Blacksburg. She was a thoroughly delightful person. I know she will be missed. My condolences to Art, Trudy, and Eia.