Helen Deirdre Nabel

Helen Deirdre Nabel (nee Healy), passed away on September 24, 2026, in

Williamsburg, VA, at the age of 90.

Dee, as she was lovingly called, spent her childhood years in the suburb of

Phibsborough, in Dublin, Ireland. She was the firstborn of Joe and Olive (affectionally

known as Molly) Healy, and they were indeed proud parents.

Dee is predeceased by her parents Joe and Molly, and by the love of her life, Rudy

Nabel, and Rudy's children, Marlene, Jeffrey, Christopher and Heather. In recent

years Dee also lost her sisters Maire and Eithne, and her brother Christopher (Kit).

Dee will be sadly and sorely missed by her sister Valerie, her brother Joe and his

wife Joan, her many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, as well as

by her brother-in-law Peader Kelly, and extended family and friends.

Dee loved education, and she had a constant urge to "better" herself. She grew up in

a time when most girls weren't given many opportunities for advancement, but she

was determined and rose through the ranks in her employment, particularly in the

area of Law. After she immigrated to the USA, which she loved from the start with all

her heart, she graduated with a business degree. She met Rudy while handling

some legal affairs for him and they fell in love.

Together, they built on the success of Nabel's Nurseries. They created millions of

memories and helped many people along the way without ever seeking plaudits.

Dee's generosity knew no bounds. She and Rudy were undoubtedly among the most

decent, helpful, welcoming, generous, and inspirational people. Following their

retirement from Nabel's Nurseries, Dee and Rudy became avid travelers within the

US and around the world. Their final residence was at Williamsburg Landing in

Virginia. Dee and Rudy had a brilliant, exciting, and very successful life together.

Dee fought the good fight valiantly until the end. May she now rest in peace. We'll

say good-bye to her with an Irish blessing and an Irish farewell.

Ar Dheis Dé go Raibh a Anam. (May her soul be on the right hand of God).

Go n-éirí an bóthar leat. (May the road rise to meet you)