Helen Matheny St. Clair died peacefully in her Boothbay Harbor home on Sept. 6, 2022 at the age of 91. She died as she lived: lovingly cared for by her children Nancy St. Clair, James St. Clair, Susan Raye; son-in-law Steven Raye; and close family friend Matthew Eldridge.

Helen was predeceased by her husband, Jerome St. Clair, in 2014. Helen and Jerry raised three children and numerous dogs and cats before retiring to Boothbay Harbor in 1983. They created a place full of fun and laughter where family and friends loved to visit.

Helen attended Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design for two years and completed her BFA at SUNY/Albany in 1974. Her art career and reputation were just taking hold in the Albany area when she and Jerry moved to Boothbay. There she steadily gained a reputation as a leading area artist. Her work was first shown in the Pinchpenny Gallery, and then for many years in the Gleason Fine Art Gallery. Of the many shows, awards and articles featuring her work, her proudest achievement was a four-page article in the prestigious “American Art Collector” magazine. Her painting style was impressionistic with soft blended edges. For each painting she had her own vision, but also deliberately left enough ambiguity that the viewer could form their own interpretations.

In addition to those mentioned above, Helen is survived by her daughter-in-law Mitsuyo St. Clair; grandchildren Henry St. Clair, Avery St. Clair, Lindsay Raye, Jessica Raye Renaud and her husband Scott Renaud; and nephew James Clausner and his wife Dana Faye. She was also predeceased by her sister Louise Clausner, and nephews Steven and John Clausner.

Helen never lost her sense of humor or her “up for anything” attitude. Her positive outlook and gentle encouragement graced all who knew her, and she will be sorely missed.

A memorial service and reception will be held on Saturday, Oct. 29 at 11 a.m. at the Congregational Church of Boothbay Harbor, 125 Townsend Avenue.

In lieu of flowers you can donate to Midcoast Humane animal shelter, Feed America or your favorite charity.

Hall’s of Boothbay has care of the arrangements. To extend online condolences, please visit www.hallfuneralhomes.com