Helen was born on 13 September 1943 in Altrincham to Lily (Darling) and Henry (Baba) Drummond. Her brother Frank arrived in 1948, and the family lived in the Midlands and Northumberland before settling in Ilford for many years.
Helen spent her career in London, beginning at the Bank of America in the early 1960s before joining Clyde & Co in 1964. She remained there for over forty years, a highly valued secretary whose quiet skill, and steady professionalism supported generations of solicitors and partners.
Helen made Great Bardfield her home in 2001, settling happily at The Old Telephone Exchange (TOTE) in 2004. After retirement, Helen threw herself into village life. She made dear friends through the Tuesday Club (where she was secretary for many years), the Horticultural Society (winning 2nd prize for her flapjacks), the Community Choir (an asset to the altos), and as “Miss Drummond” at the village school, helping children with their reading. She was a familiar and friendly presence around the village—visiting friends, popping into the shops, and attending events.
Covid slowed things down, and afterwards Helen preferred the comfort of home: her favourite chair, her cat Mabel curled on her lap, birds at the feeder, and the TV on. We are deeply grateful to the “Blue Egg gang,” who continued to include her and bring joy to her days when getting out became harder.
The last few years were challenging as her health declined, but giggling remained a constant to the end. Helen stayed at TOTE until June 2025, then moved to Redbond Lodge in Great Dunmow, where she was cared for with exceptional kindness and compassion. She was content, visited often, still laughing and still herself.
Helen died on 31 July 2026, six weeks before her 83rd birthday. She was our family matriarch and dearly loved. People remember her with great affection. They speak of her steadfast friendship and gentle presence. Words used to describe Helen - kind, thoughtful, sweet, gentle, generous, loyal, lovely - are all true.
Thank you in advance for all your thoughts and donations.
When I first joined Clydes I shared a room with Helen and Linda and they both taught me so much initially which I am eternally grateful for. The "Beanses". Helen was a lovely, caring and thoughtful lady with class. I will always hold her in high regard and treasure the years of memories we made with one another. RIP to my friend Helen, lots of love Carla x
Miss Carla Doodes
In memory of all the cats mum had over the years, from Mabel, Colin and Ophelia xx
Mrs Sarah Webb
Remembering Helen, a beautiful, kind and caring lady. My biggest kiss and hug is for you,
Denise Xxxx
Mrs Denise Dennington
In memory of my dear friend, Helen.
Mrs Christine Helliar
Rest Peacefully Auntie Hem.
Mr Owen Drummond
I have many happy memories of Helen. How kind and welcoming she was when I joined Clyde's. We immediately had a connection with our love of cats. a treat of an almond croissant on a Friday was a tradition. RIP my lovely friend.
Mrs LINDA LANG
In memory of Helen.
Mrs Denise Head
We will miss you enormously, Auntie Hem. Thank you for being so wonderful xxx
Mrs Peveline O'keeffe
In loving memory of dear Auntie Hem.
. Emily Drummond
Helen was an essential part of my working life - an excellent, quietly efficient and thoughtful secretary who developed into an invaluable and experienced part of our litigation team, a true colleague.
After we had both retired Helen kept in touch with our group mainly through an annual birthday lunch in September when Helen and two others had birthdays within a few days of each other.
Away from the office Helen was a delightful and caring companion who will be greatly missed.
Mr & Mrs Howard and Madeleine Townson
We are so sorry for your loss Sarah. We remember Helen fondly through our family connections.
Much love from Jo and Zoe Coulson xx
Ms Zoe Coulson
In loving memory of a dear mother, with lots of love from The Bairns @@XX@@
Mr & Mrs Ian and Sarah Webb
I am very sorry to hear of Helen's death. At the very start of my career, she was one of the secretaries in our group at Clydes, and was something of a mother figure to us junior lawyers. She could not have been kindler or gentler to me, when I was starting out and for the first 10 years or so of my career. She was at the heart of a lot of very close friendships within the group, and we all shared our concerns with Helen as she did with us. A kind and gentle soul.
Mr benjamin knowles
Rest in Peace dear Helen 💕😘
Mrs Christine Wilson
In memory of dear Helen, who will be very much missed. With love xxx
Family Davies
