CAMDEN — Helen S. Putnam, 82, widow of Paul B. Putnam, died April 27, 2014. Born in Camden on June 10, 1931, she was the daughter of Alfred Burton and Lucy (Piper) Stevenson.

Helen was a graduate of Camden High School, Class of 1949, and attended Westbrook Junior College for several years. On June 6, 1951, she married her high school classmate, Paul B. Putnam, at the First Congregational Church in Camden.

Helen's grandfather had started Stevenson's Candy early in the 20th century in Camden. The business had been taken over by Paul's parents and was renamed Putnam's Candy Kitchen, which Paul and Helen managed for several years.

She also worked several years as a nutrition aide for the Maine Extension Service. Helen traveled to homes throughout the state assisting families in establishing meal plans and proper food preparation, a service that was greatly appreciated.

In 1994, Paul and Helen retired and moved back to Camden, where they became active members at the First Congregational Church UCC and the Camden Lion's Club.

Helen enjoyed her role as a devoted wife and mother. Her passion for cooking and entertaining gave her many opportunities to host fancy dinner parties for family and friends. She was a very happy hostess, loved being the center of attention and had the ability to laugh at herself.

Helen's hobbies included knitting and sewing, and designing and making matching mother and daughter outfits.

Surviving are her three children, Alan Putnam and his wife, Sherry, of Cape Elizabeth, Vicki Fletcher and her husband, Michael, of Rockport, and Valerie Leaman of Sidney, Australia; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Paul B. Putnam, who died June 6, 2013; and her brother, Robert Stevenson who died in 1946.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, July 10 at 1 p.m. at the First Congregational Church UCC in Camden with the Rev. Kevin Pleas officiating.

If desired memorial donations may be made to the Shield's Mission Fund, c/o First Congregational Church UCC, 55 Elm St., Camden, ME 04843.

Arrangements are with Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service.