Helen R. Gallant

Helen R. Gallant, 86, of Springvale, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at St. Andre’s Health Care in Biddeford, surrounded by the care and comfort she so richly deserved.

Born in Sanford on August 2, 1939, Helen was the daughter of Donat and Laura (Turcotte) Desrochers. She grew up in Sanford and attended the local Catholic schools, where the values of faith, patience, and devotion that shaped her life were firmly rooted.

Helen devoted her life to raising and caring for her family, a role she embraced with quiet strength and endless love. She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother who found her greatest joy at home, surrounded by those she loved most. A simple woman at heart, Helen treasured the everyday moments — spending time with family, sharing laughter, and enjoying the comfort of familiar routines.

She loved going to the beach, listening to music, and never missed an episode of Days of Our Lives, a show she followed with true dedication. Helen also enjoyed coloring and arts and crafts, activities that reflected her gentle nature and appreciation for simple pleasures. Though soft-spoken, she had a wonderful sense of humor, a contagious laugh, and a patience that made everyone around her feel at ease.

Helen was predeceased by her parents and by four siblings, Conrad Desrochers, Rita Cabana, Robert Desrochers, and Theresa McFarland.

She is lovingly remembered by her son, John Gallant and his significant other, Roy Gee of Springvale; her three daughters, Diane Numann of Chugiak, Alaska, Christine Gallant and her husband Russ Haskell of Sanford, and Julie Gallant of Biddeford; her former spouse, Emile Gallant of Alfred; her five cherished grandchildren, Emmy Numann, Audrey Haskell, Alyssa Haskell, Isaac Armendariz, and Xavier Armendariz; her sister, Jeannette Robichaud of Sanford; and many nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.

A private graveside service will be held in the spring at St. Ignatius Cemetery in Sanford.

Helen’s life was one of quiet love, steady devotion, and gentle kindness — a legacy that will live on in the hearts of her family forever.