Helen Elizabeth (Self) Galford

On the evening of March 25, 2022 at approximately 5:45 p.m., Helen Elizabeth (Self) Galford passed away peacefully at home in the loving care of her family. Previously diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, she battled with the complications of the disease for many years.

Helen was born in Indianapolis on March 14, 1944. The only child of Fred Russell Self and Margaret Helena Reed, she graduated from Broad Ripple High School in 1962.

Shortly after high school, Helen attended airline school in Kansas City, Mo., which catapulted a long career in the airline and travel industry. She worked for Delta airlines for 16 years as a reservationist and then transitioned into an accomplished travel agent for 20-plus years. Through this career, she traveled the world, exploring many exciting destinations and cultural landmarks, which brought her great joy.

In 1974, she moved to Putnam County with her husband Clark. There they lovingly raised three children together. Helen’s hobbies and favorite pastimes included gardening and tending to her flower beds, playing cards with local friends, playing the piano and crocheting – a skill that was passed down by her mother. An active member of Roachdale Christian Church, Helen sang in the choir, volunteered for bible school, and helped to coordinate countless events and activities. She also served her community as Jackson Township Trustee and as a North Putnam School Corporation Board member.

She was a lover of music, art, culture, travel, animals and the natural world. With a compassionate heart of gold and an altruistic spirit she was beloved by countless friends, neighbors and colleagues.

Helen was preceded in death by her mother and father, Fred Russell Self and Margaret Helena Reed.

Helen is survived by her husband of 51 years, Luster Clark Galford, and their three children, Justin A. (Susie) Galford of Indianapolis, Megan S. Galford (Aaron Haar) of Chico, Calif., and Colin M. (Amber) Galford of Cartersville, Ga. Also surviving her are her seven grandchildren, who were a great source of pride and adoration.

Helen generously donated her body to the IU Anatomical Education Program at Indiana University School of Medicine. Her generous gift will contribute significantly to the advancement of health science education in the state of Indiana, greatly benefiting the quality of life and care for the living.

The family plans to hold a celebration of life for Helen in the summer of 2022.