Helen Braren

Helen Ahern Braren, 89, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., died on May 6, 2014, at her home as she wished. Helen was a longtime resident of Atlantic Beach and Ponte Vedra Beach. Helen was quite the athlete, having graduated from Fletcher High School where she received a swimming scholarship from Boston College, but responsibilities at home kept her from that pursuit. Helen was a member of the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club where she attained Gold Member status and enjoyed playing tennis for the club's A-Team. Helen was an expert bridge player and briefly taught the game at the Ponte Vedra Cultural Center. Helen was an exemplary mother/parent and neighborhood children flocked to her house for fun and advice. Helen was a longtime supporter of St. Paul's Catholic Church and School, where all six of her children attended. Helen lost her beloved husband, Fred, in 2004 and her daughter, Paula E. Braren, in 1973. Helen leaves behind her sister, Paula Pendergast (Jerry), West Palm Beach, Fla.; daughters, Christine B. Fulford (Richard) Rocky Mt., N.C., Susan B. Puente (Henry), Ponte Vedra Beach, Lisa A. Braren, Jacksonville; and two sons, Michael E. Braren (Lauren) Ponte Vedra, Frederick I. Braren Jr., Ponte Vedra; and 10 wonderful grandchildren and a host of wonderful nieces and nephews!

A private family graveside service was held on May 12, 2014, with celebrant Fr. William Kelly. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent in honor of Helen Ahern Braren to St. Paul's Catholic Church, 224 N. 5th St., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250.

Please visit the online Tribute at www.quinn-shalz.com.

Services under the direction and care of Quinn-Shalz Family Funeral Home, Jacksonville Beach, Fla.

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