Phyllis A. Helton

Scarborough – Phyllis A. (Miller) Helton, 91, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, in Scarborough, Maine, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 19, 1933, in Presque Isle, Maine, Phyllis lived a long and vibrant life marked by dedication to her work, deep connections with family and friends, and a joyful spirit and love of life that touched all who knew her. A 1952 graduate of Presque Isle High School, Phyllis launched a banking career that spanned more than four decades mostly as a teller, a role that suited Phyllis well given her love for conversation and connection with others. Her warm “County Girl” demeanor and quick wit made every customer feel welcomed and valued.

Phyllis loved the simple joys. She was known for her love of laughter and her wicked sense of humor. Whether telling jokes or sharing stories over a meal, Phyllis had a way of making people feel at ease. She cherished time spent at the beach or in restaurants, marathon card sessions and shopping excursions, and could often be found with a good book in hand.

Family was central to Phyllis’ life. She was predeceased by her parents, Clifford and Laura (Johnston) Miller; her sister, Shirley Tapley and husband Wendell; her son, Steven Helton; and nephew, Michael Tapley.

She leaves behind her devoted husband of 62 years, William Helton of Scarborough; daughters, Victoria Helton and Angela Helton of South Portland, and Andrea Helton of Somerville, MA; brother, Robert Miller and wife Penny of Washburn; daughter-in-law, Tami Helton; and grandsons, Paris and Jesse Helton of Boise, ID; niece, Pamela Pryor of Fort Fairfield; George Ayoob of Biddeford, whom she thought of as a son; and Emily Ayoob —her “granddaughter at heart”—along with her husband Pierre Ambrosino and their children, Simone and Antoine of New York City. Phyllis also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends.

Phyllis’s legacy is one of warmth, resilience, humor, and love. May her memory bring a smile to all who knew her.

A private funeral service will be held on April 26 at Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home in South Portland. A public Celebration of Life will follow later this year—with plenty of good food, drink, music and laughter. Phyllis specifically requested this get-together, this true Celebration of the Life she lived with such relish.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home of South Portland, 1024 Broadway. To view Phyllis’ memorial page, or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTully Walker.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her honor.