Mrs Helen Cameron
Funeral Service
Location
St Peter's, Lutton Place
EH8 9PE
Date & Time
1:00pm Tue 27th Jun 2017
Leave a message of condolence
Condolences
Emma wrote
21st Jul 2017
Dear Duncan. Sorry post so late I just found out today about Helen. I was Helen's work colleague and friend and ultimately became my boss I was Helens PA she was the best boss and person I have ever met. Such a caring true heart. I am so sorry to hear she lost her battle. Have read all the lovely messages and Helen was truely remarkable her strength and courage was awesome. Miss you Helen and look after my mum up there for me until I join you all.
Harriet wrote
14th Jul 2017
Dear Duncan,I was privileged to receive your amazing updates about Helen and your family (sent on to me via Nicky Richards)during the time Helen was in the hospice.I can't thank you enough for being kind enough to share these with people who you have never met. It is a funny thing, knowing someone through work - this is just one part of their life, and most of the time, this is just the way it is and it's fine.When Helen left work for the last time, it felt like a huge gap had suddenly appeared. Through your generosity in sharing what was happening for you all, I felt connected to her during the last few weeks' of her life, which felt very precious.I had been getting to know Helen better over the last two or three years at work. She was one of the most inspirational people to work with, and I know you will have heard this many times.In the years to come, I would like your girls to know what a difference she made at work as a female leader - what an example she was of how women can lead authentically, with grace, intelligence, humour and power. I have never met anyone quite like Helen - her energy, optimism, humour and warmth.Whatever I write here feels inadequate, but it also feels so important to mark the difference she made to my working life, and the difference I saw her make to the working lives of others.I am missing, and will continue to miss her greatly.
Dominic wrote
1st Jul 2017
Farewell to one of the most positive colleagues I have had the pleasure to work with. I am sure that Helen's brave journey will inspire many others. She will be greatly missed.
Philip wrote
27th Jun 2017
Helen and I worked together twice at the Scottish Government - once when in the Economic Strategy unit c2008, then again when she became Director of Children and Families some 7 years later. What struck me about Helen - what remains with me now in the face of this awful loss - is her vitality, undimmed across that time. She was full of humour, had a sharp critical mind and was fired with a fascination for how the world worked, which made her incomparable in her policy posts. But more importantly, it seemed to give her a huge appetite for living - for being with people, for experiencing the world. Whenever I left her company, I felt my day was always just a bit more brighter, and lighter, and her memory now makes me smile and lifts the gloom of this rainy day - and will for many days to come for all who knew her, I'm sure. It may be a cliche to say that the sadness at her loss is outweighed by the gratitude of her having been part of our lives, but thinking about her now, I feel like smiling, not mourning, and that's probably the best tribute I can think of for Helen. I hope her family and close friends will get some comfort for these words. I'm just glad I was privileged to have known such an amazing woman.With condolencesPhilip Raines
Katherine wrote
27th Jun 2017
Dear Duncan, Eleanor and Isla-Helen was one of the loveliest people I had the pleasure to meet in the Scottish Government.She had a rare and special gift of making you feel like you were the most important person she was speaking to and your day was always so much brighter for seeing her.Her endlessly positive mindset, kindness towards all and her wee grin- she was just brilliant. We will miss her so much, and you are in all our thoughts xx
Carol wrote
27th Jun 2017
I worked with Helen on a Scottish Government HR project and like so many others in the SG, was struck by her warmth, passion and sheer ability.She was so self-deprecating yet she was always the brightest star in the room, a true inspiration who had a kind word and a cheeky smile for everyone.However, the times I enjoyed most were when we chatted as two Mums, each with two daughters.She was delighted when she discovered that my eldest daughter was one of the ‘big girls’ that Isla and Eleanor had seen in a ballet show, and that they all went to the same school.She was so enormously proud of Isla and Eleanor and her face lit up whenever she spoke of them.My thoughts are with all of her family today. X
Teo wrote
27th Jun 2017
Helen was an amazing and truly inspirational woman. I had the privilege of reporting to her at one time. She was funny, very sharp and supportive. I couldn't have asked for a better boss. I still can't believe she is gone. Duncan - your memories of Helen today were truly inspirational, you certainly did her credit. Paul - your memories were so personal and gave us a better understanding of Helen as a whole person.Isla - I cant believe how brave you were singing sobeautifully. Your mummy would have been so very proud. It absolutely isn't fair to lose such a precious person so soon. My thoughts, prayers and love are with you all. x
Neil wrote
27th Jun 2017
I worked with Helen when she first arrived in the Scottish Government and was blessed in having done so. She was a wonderful colleague, full of fun. I remember her bringing in cakes for us when she was first off ill and a group of us had to be in the office at a hideously early time one Sunday morning. I won't forget those - or the fondness with which she spoke of her family. You were everything to her and my thoughts go out to you all at this desperately sad time.
Alison wrote
27th Jun 2017
I was incredibly sad to hear of Helen's passing.She was a lovely colleague and she will be sorely missed.My condolences to her family and friends.
Alli wrote
27th Jun 2017
Duncan, Isla and Eleanor,We just wanted to say our thoughts are prayers are with you all at this sad time.Helen was always so kind and thoughtful and we know how proud she was of Isla and Eleanor.Alli, Charlotte and Catriona (Unit Leaders, 120th Edinburgh Guides)
Louise wrote
27th Jun 2017
Dear Duncan,Just a quick note to let you know we are thinking about you and your beautiful girls at this very difficult time. I know Helen will be watching over you all and be so proud of your strength. All our love Louise, Colin, Ellie, Drew and Kate xxx
Nicky wrote
27th Jun 2017
Helen was the dearest friend and colleague.I had the absolute privilege of working closely with her for many years and she brought me so much.I will always carry her passion and perspective with me.We had so many laughs, even in those final days in the hospice, and her capacity and energy for work and life was an inspiration.I thought I knew that this day would come but I realise now that I didn't.I just can't believe that she has gone.And she hasn't.Love to Duncan, Eleanor and Isla and all who are richer for having her with us.Nicky xxx
Liz wrote
27th Jun 2017
I met Helen only once.My team in Scottish Government works with the Directorate for Children and Families.I introduced myself to Helen at an event we both attended shortly before she became ill.I had previously heard Helen speak at a leadership event I attended.On both occasions, Helen's passion for her job was striking and quite inspiring.She spoke with great warmth and I left both events feeling more energised, mainly because of hearing Helen speak.My thoughts are with those closest to her at this sad time.
Jason wrote
26th Jun 2017
Over the three years that I have known her, Helen was someone whose smile brightened up all of my Sundays. Her optimism and outlook on life was something that I greatly admired. I am privileged to have known her and will miss her dearly. To Duncan, Isla and Eleanor - I am thinking of you all. I am sorry I cannot be there tomorrow. I am sure it will be a fitting service for a remarkable woman.
Yvonne wrote
26th Jun 2017
Helen was a wonderful woman; a supportive colleague and an inspiration to all who knew her.We loved her energy and optimism and she will be sorely missed.Deepest condolences to all the family - our thoughts are with you at this saddest of times.Yvonne
John wrote
26th Jun 2017
I worked with Helen on a project a couple of years back. She lived a busy and full life but always found time for a kind word, a smile, a laugh, a supportive comment. Her attitude to work and to life were an inspiration. I'm grateful for having the opportunity to know her for a short time. My thoughts are with Helen's family.
Nathalie wrote
26th Jun 2017
Helen's parents and mine met at university and as children 'the Lewis's and 'the Smiths'regularly spent weekends together; they were always full of fun and laughter. I've only seen Helen a few times since those days but I will always have happy memories of them and of Helen. It was with great sadness that I heard she had passed away after living with cancer for so long. She was a brave lady who I will never forget. My thoughts are with Duncan, Isla , Eleanor, Jane and Paul.
lorna wrote
26th Jun 2017
Helen brightened up any room she was in with that beaming smile and zest for life. She was always focused on looking out for others even at times when things were very difficult for her. As others have said, she was hugely intelligent, compassionate and very funny. I will miss her as a colleague and a friend. I was lucky to have her in my life for a while. Her family will continue to be in my thoughts.
Kirsty wrote
26th Jun 2017
I had the great pleasure of working with Helen on a programme to deliver gender equality. Her personal commitment and passion shone through making her a truly inspirational leader. The questions she asked would push us further, and she stretched and challenged us while being so supportive - and all with such good humour. What I will remember most, and treasure most, is the memory of how often we laughed in our meetings. Helen made it all fun. I miss her very much. My heart goes out to her family.
Lynsey wrote
26th Jun 2017
Helen was held in such high esteem by everyone who worked and interacted with her.I had the good fortune to work with Helen over the last few years on various issues and projects as secretary to the Council of Scottish Government Unions, and really valued her warmth, sincerity and respectful directness.She was an incredible woman, furiously intelligent and hugely compassionate; those gifts leave such a positive legacy and she will be greatly missed by all of us within the CSGU, across all the trade unions.You will all be in our thoughts over the coming days and weeks.
Kevin wrote
26th Jun 2017
I had the pleasure ofworking with Helen during the second half of 2015.She was such a great colleague, a wonderful role model and an across the board inspiration.Being involved in such a high profile and pressured environment has never been so much fun.She taught me a lot during that time.
Stephen wrote
26th Jun 2017
I didn't know Helen as well as many of my friends and colleagues in the Scottish Government.But she made no less impression on me because of that. I knew her as a person of great warmth and kindness; as a person who always looked ahead and never back; as a person concerned for others before herself; and as a person who gave more than she received.She lived a good life of which her family can be proud and, in time, celebrate and remember with great happiness in the years to come. And even though she and I did not know each other well, I shall still miss her. My deepest condolences to her family at this difficult time, Stephen
Robert wrote
26th Jun 2017
Condolences to Helen's family at this very sad time.Helen was a colleague in the SG and a member of the FDA.She was a huge supporter of people and will be very much missed.I will miss especially her sense of humour and optimism.Thoughts ands prayers are with her family. From me, and the many FDA members in the SG.
Nicola wrote
26th Jun 2017
Helen was a fantastic colleague to have around and to be around.I once had the good fortune of accompanying her to a Women in Leadership conference in London - full of 'famous' names - and she turned out to be the most inspiring person in the room, bursting with warmth and energy and optimism.She always spoke of you all with such joy and love. Helen will be hugely missed .
Lesley wrote
23rd Jun 2017
All my thoughts are with Helen's family at this very sad time. Helen was a wise, kind and generous colleague. I will miss her very much.
Elspeth wrote
23rd Jun 2017
Dear Duncan, Isla and Eleanor,I have known Helen since she joined the SG; one of my nicest memories of her was bumping into her at Kinnaird Park in the then Borders café, back in 2005 with a toddler and breast-feeding baby (you girls!) . She was radiant with happiness to be a Mum and in recent months at work, she has continued to share with us her pride in your developments and achievements (Duncan's too) while nonetheless getting through the workload.Helen was a fantastic civil servant but nothing was more important to her than you, her family.She was a great example to many of us about how to balance home and office.It's been a pleasure to know Helen;I know you will miss her terribly.She told me that she wanted you all to sit in the garden to remember her happily so I hope that you will have the chance to do so in the time ahead.And do look after yourselves - she will want you to be happy in your lives, challenging as this may seem.With very best wishes,Elspeth
Audrey wrote
23rd Jun 2017
Dear Duncan, Isla and Eleanor - Helen will forever be watching over you and only a whisper away from everyone whose life she touched.Fiona Tilbrook and I remember her as "Best Boss" which used to make her grin.We attempted to keep up with her energy and greatly valued her friendship. She was so immensely proud of you all.It was very generous of you Duncan to send the weekly updates at a time which must have been incredibly difficult for you.Take care of each other.
Tricia wrote
23rd Jun 2017
An kind and thoughtful colleague and an inspiring leader who brought great energy and determination to everything she did.Helen was determined to make a positive contribution and she did this in abundance.We will miss her greatly in SG.My thoughts and prayers are with you all. x
Lesley wrote
23rd Jun 2017
Helen was the most inspiring person I have ever worked with.She was challenging and demanded high standards, but took the time to give praise and support too.Her grasp or, and attention to, detail was incredible.I have learned so much from her, not just about being an effective leader at work, but also how to live life with courage, optimism, humour and grace.We have lost an exceptional colleague with so much more to give.It will be no comfort at the moment, but I hope in time that Duncan, Eleanor and Isla understand what a difference Helen made to so many people's lives.
Sarah wrote
23rd Jun 2017
I was so very sorry to hear of Helen's passing.We met as children, usually at parties as our parents were great friends and socialised together often.I remember Helen as a sweet, gentle girl with beautiful red hair.Although we didn't meet so often in adulthood, I liked to hear about her from my mum, who heard from her mum.They always struck me as a close-knit and loving family.Heartfelt condolences to those Helen leaves behind, especially her husband two little girls, Paul and Jane.RIPWith much love from Sarah and all the Colwells
Bridget wrote
22nd Jun 2017
Dear Duncan, Eleanor and Isla,I am so sorry for your loss.Helen was my colleague and although I did not know her well, I was always impressed by her optimism, courage, and determination, which were the words her boss used to describe her today at our big weekly staff meeting in the Scottish Government.Please accept my condolences and know that I am praying for Helen and for you. Bridget Campbell
Nancy wrote
22nd Jun 2017
I had the privilege of having contact with Helen as her welfare officer (now retired) during her illness and working with her as a colleague in HR. Helen had so many qualities I admired, not least her tenacity and her sense of humour. I remember her with much affection.I hope the family can draw comfort in the knowledge that others hold you in their thoughts and prayers who loved Helen best and will miss her most.
Laurena wrote
22nd Jun 2017
Helen was a joy to know, she had a presence that could illuminate a room.She was a colleague who became a good friend.Despite the challenges she faced her sense of humour was infectious, along with her courage and determination to see things through.I’ll miss Helen we’ve lost a fantastic friend and colleague.My heart goes out to Duncan and the girls at this very sad time.
Martin wrote
22nd Jun 2017
RIP Helen."In my Father's house there are many mansions. I will prepare a place for you, and I will come back to take you to myself. Were it not so, I would not have told you. I, the LORD, have spoken".John 14:2
Francesca wrote
22nd Jun 2017
I was so sad to hear this news.Helen was an excellent colleague; her cheerful nature brightened any room.My thoughts, and everyone's in the Scotland Office, are with Helen's family.
James wrote
22nd Jun 2017
Such a warm, friendly and generous colleague.We are all truly saddened by her untimely loss.All our thoughts are with her family and her loved ones at this time.
James wrote
22nd Jun 2017
A truly inspirational and courageous colleague and leader who was an absolute pleasure to work with.My thoughts are with Helen's family and friends.
Richard wrote
21st Jun 2017
Such a wonderful, generous colleague.My thoughts are with Helen's family, friends and colleagues.
Cayt wrote
21st Jun 2017
I have so many fond memories of Helen, especially when we were house mates at Birmingham.Her energy, inspiration, love, sense of adventure are just a very few traits that made Her who she was.It was a very special blessing to have lived, loved and laughed alongside Helen.
Kirsty wrote
21st Jun 2017
Helen and I started at the Scottish Government on the same day - and we got on immediately - she was funny, warm, clever and determined to make the world a better place.Over the years - she did just that - and on the occasions we managed to catch up she would regale me with stories of work, family life and her wide circle of friends.We sometimes spoke of her illness - and as others have said - she always did this in a dignified and practical way - underplaying how difficult it must have been. I'm so sorry I'm unable to come along on Tuesday but sending love to Duncan, the girls and to everyone else who will miss her so sorely.
Scott wrote
21st Jun 2017
So sorry to hear the sad news of Helen passing.A truly inspirational woman and will be sorely missed by many.
Sue wrote
21st Jun 2017
To the family of Helen, I want to send my heartfelt sadness and condolences to you all. She will be so very missed. I met Helen at Maggies about 5 years ago and we clicked instantly. Her warmth and fabulous sense of humour was infectious and she bore her illness with such dignity. I will never forget her.I wish peace for you at this very sad time.I apologise that I will not unfortunately be able to pay my respects personally on Tuesday. Regards Sue
Anne wrote
21st Jun 2017
So sorry for your huge loss Duncan, thinking of you and the girls at this very sad time.
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Oakvale Funeral Home
106 Whitehouse Loan
Edinburgh
EH9 1BD
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