Mary Helen Harold- Hilton’s journey with cancer ended peacefully on 09/24/2009 in her Acton home. Mary was born in Boston on 09/17/1952 to Winifred M Harold (Queenan) of West Roxbury and the late James P Harold of Philadelphia. She leaves behind her dearly loved husband, David, their three precious children Abigail, Luke and Adam and their “red bone coon hound, Rosie, AKA “pencil head”.
Mary received a teaching degree in elementary education from the University of Massachusetts, and a post baccalaureate in Health Information Management from Northeastern University. During her 15 years in this field she held various titles including Senior Consultant in the health care division of Ernst & Young.
After the 911 tragedy Mary reconsidered her vocation and pursued an education in muscular therapy. In February 2004 she graduated from Muscular Therapy Institute. She had a private practice in Concord, Ma. She loved working with people, uniting body, mind, and soul.
In the late 1970’s Mary was a Hatha Yoga teacher, which she continued to practice throughout her life. She loved nature “All people are my brothers and sisters, and all things are my companions.” She nurtured her spiritual aspect with retreats, meditation, and readings.
She is survived by her beloved mother Winifred M Harold of West Roxbury, her two brothers, James J. Harold of Roslindale, Gerry Harold of West Roxbury, her two sisters, Jane Harold Farley and husband Robert Farley of Ipswich, Peggy Harold O’Brien and husband Michael O’Brien of Beverly, her aunts “Auntie Helen” Queenan of West Roxbury, Eileen McGrath of Texas, her uncles James Queenan of West Roxbury, Tom Queenan of Roslindale and John Queenan of Braintree. She is also survived by four nieces, two nephews, four great nephews and one great niece. On her husband’s side of the family, she loved and was loved by all, too numerous to mention by name yet each one cherished deeply and. imprinted in her heart. Her well-being was nourished by specific “angels” in the Acton community who cared for her through her journey. Mary extends her love and thanks to all who have ever entered her life and left their indelible mark by their mere presence.
A memorial service to celebrate Mary’s life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or a charity of one’s choosing.
When I die if you need to weep,
Cry for your brother or sister, walking the street beside you,
And when you need me, put your arms around anyone
And give them what you need to give me.
I want to leave you something,
Something better than words or sounds
Look for me in the people I’ve known or loved
You can love me most by letting hands touch hands
Love doesn’t die, people do.