Helen Louise Hild, of Vero Beach, Fla., formerly of Rye, passed away on Jan. 8, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Helen was known for her extraordinary kindness, generous spirit, and steadfast devotion to family and friends.
Born June 2, 1929, in Fabens, Texas, to Ida Mae and Chester Shoemaker, Helen moved to New York during World War II. She earned a degree in education from Hunter College and taught home economics. She married her beloved husband of 64 years, Herbert A. Hild, on June 28, 1952.
Helen and Herb raised their three daughters, Heidi, Hope, and Heather, on City Island, N.Y., and then Rye, where they lived for 50 years on North Manursing Island.
Helen was a gracious hostess, accomplished cook, player of games, and wonderful singer. She was deeply involved in the Rye community, serving as president of The Little Garden Club of Rye, a volunteer with The Rye Twig, and trustee of The Rye Presbyterian Church. She was also proud to be a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
An enthusiastic sailor, Helen was a long-time member of The New York Yacht Club and the American Yacht Club and enjoyed cruising New England and the British Virgin Islands with family and friends.
Helen wintered with Herb in Vero Beach, where they were members of The Moorings Yacht and Country Club, enjoying both new friends and Rye snowbird friends. After Herb’s passing, she moved to Indian River Estates in Vero, where she enjoyed singing and games.
Helen is survived by her daughters, Heidi Hild Sommers (David), Hope A. Hild, and Heather Hild Atwater (Nathaniel); four grandchildren, Kim Sommers (Stephen Yablonski), Karalyn Sommers, Nathaniel Atwater lll, and Herbert Atwater; and two great-grandchildren, Hadley and Natalie.
Helen was predeceased by her husband, Herb, and her sister, Betty Harrington.
A family memorial service is planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen’s memory to VNA Hospice Music Therapy in Vero Beach or the Little Garden Club of Rye, https://www.lgcofrye.org/.
