It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Helen Bradshaw Holman, beloved mother, grandmother, teacher, and musician, at the age of 91. Helen was born in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, the daughter of Emma Bradshaw and Robert Holman.

A graduate of the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, Helen’s love of music shaped her life. She was a student of the renowned Alberto Guerrero, known for mentoring Glenn Gould, and she spent over 40 years sharing her passion with students in Charlottetown. Her teaching style, grounded in Guerrero's expertise, was enthusiastic, technically precise, and always inspiring. Under her world class guidance, her students regularly won performance awards and excelled in exams, many continuing on to successful careers of their own.

Whether she was playing jazz or classical music at home, accompanying national and regional dance troupes, performing with the PEI Symphony and Maritime Classical Duet Tours, or performing at the ECMAs, her talent was undeniable. She even learned to play country music by ear! She was a charter member of the PEI Registered Music Teachers Association, and the tributes since her passing have been a testament to both her playing acumen and her amazing teaching abilities.

Helen’s love of music was matched only by her devotion to her family. She is survived by her sons, James (Kim) and Jeff, and her grandchildren Patrick and Katherine Morris , and Caleb Dionne. She was predeceased by her daughter, Virginia.

Though always running late, Helen was the life of the party—dancing the longest and staying past the last song. She will be remembered not only for her infectious spirit and her commitment to her family and music, but also for her passionate pursuit of healthy living. Her doctors often found themselves the recipients of articles and advice, as Helen took great joy in researching ways to live a long, vibrant life.

Helen’s intellectual curiosity was boundless. A lifelong avid reader, she valued knowledge deeply and encouraged her children to develop a love for reading from a young age. Her sharp intellect and dedication to learning left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Helen was also a free thinker who, for several years attended services and provided piano accompaniment at the Universalist Unitarian Church of Halifax and later at the Charlottetown Unitarian Fellowship.

Helen also had a unique way of helping her family and friends face challenges, often saying, “If someone gave you a million dollars… how would you solve this?” Her perspective on obstacles, combined with her zest for life, encouraged others to look for creative solutions and embrace each challenge with optimism.

Helen was known for her love of physical activity, and encouraged all around her to join in impromptu stretching, calisthenics and in her later years, long walks. Even as an adult, she would entertain guests by walking across her living room on her hands, a playful display of strength and agility that never failed to impress those around her. Well into her 80s Helen maintained an active lifestyle, often participating in Lydia Bach dance exercises and aerobics classes. Her dedication to physical fitness was inspiring.

Her affection for cats was equally undeniable. Her beloved cat, Furn, lived to an impressive 23 years, and around her piano, and mantle, there were many photos, ornaments, and cat-themed cards that delighted both Helen and her students.

Helen’s legacy is one of passion, dedication, and a constant reminder to live life to its fullest. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Thank you to Susan Hartley and Dr. Shannon Curtis for all their support for many years and to the staff at Bayshore for their care over the last year.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.