Helen Hampton, longtime Downey Patriot contributor, dies at 97

DOWNEY – Helen Hampton was born and raised in Maine. Music was an important part of her life. She studied Voice at the Boston Conservatory of Music, where her voice developed into a beautiful coloratura soprano.

In the 1940s, Helen sang at hotel banquets, churches, garden parties, weddings, and the USO. She also sang weekly solos over the radio. She married and moved with her husband to Florida. At age 22, she opened a music store called the Melody Shop.

Helen and her family eventually moved to California. In the 1960s, she joined a choral group that performed all over the state. She later recorded a solo album of show tunes and other favorites.

In the 1980s, Helen and her family joined the Long Beach Opera Guild, where they attended monthly musical soirees. They also had season tickets to the opera in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.

In later years, Helen sang solos in nursing homes as part of a choral group. She also enjoyed musical theater and the Downey Symphony. Helen loved to give back to the community. She volunteered at the hospital gift shop, the high school office and the library bookstore.

Helen wrote and shared numerous stories about her life in a memoirs writing class. Many of her stories, often humorous, were published in local newspapers.

Helen loved her family above all else. They shared many years of love and laughter together. Helen also cherished her friendships with so many special people who enriched her life.

A Funeral Mass will be held February 16 at 11:00 at All Souls Mortuary Chapel, 4400 Cherry Avenue, Long Beach (562) 424-8601. A private burial will follow.