Former St. Mary’s Principal Remembered With Memorial Bench and Gift to Support Students.
January 13th, 2026
The Catholic Schools Foundation is deeply grateful to the Melrose community for honoring the life and legacy of Helen Blinstrub, affectionately known as “Miss B,” through a memorial bench dedication and generous donation in her name.
Miss B served the Catholic school community for more than 20 years, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students, families, and educators. As a former principal of St. Mary’s School in Melrose, she was known for her deep commitment to faith, education, and community, values that continue to define Catholic schools today.
Earlier this year, four close friends of Miss B, Beth Flynn, Sandy Fitzemeyer, Christine Littlehale, and Karen Lenehan, came together to honor her memory. All four shared a deep personal connection with Miss B, and together they raised their 14 children at St. Mary’s School during her time as principal. Wanting to create a tribute that reflected both her personal impact and her lifelong dedication to education, they organized a community fundraising effort to install a memorial bench at Mary Foley Park, located near St. Mary’s School.
The outpouring of support exceeded expectations, allowing the organizers to donate $2,248.01 to the Catholic Schools Foundation in Miss B’s name. These funds will help support students and families across Greater Boston through need-based scholarships and educational resources.
On Saturday, January 3, 2026 members of the community gathered for a brief dedication ceremony to celebrate Miss B’s life and service.
“Educators like Miss B dedicate their lives to serving students and families, and it’s inspiring to see a community come together to honor that commitment. We are deeply grateful for this generosity, which will help continue access to Catholic education for students in need.” said Mike Reardon, Executive Director of the Catholic Schools Foundation.
“Miss B meant so much to so many of us,” said Beth Flynn. “Creating this bench and supporting the Catholic Schools Foundation in her name felt like a meaningful way to honor the impact she had on our community.”
The Catholic Schools Foundation is honored to be included in this tribute and extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed. Miss B’s legacy lives on not only in memories but also in the opportunities created for future students in her name.
Continue Miss B’s Legacy
Gifts to the Catholic Schools Foundation help ensure that students across Greater Boston have access to a high-quality Catholic education, regardless of financial circumstances. If Miss B’s story inspires you, we invite you to make a gift in her honor and help continue the mission she so deeply believed in.
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