The City of Bathurst has lost one of its most dedicated, faithful, and talented musicians. The family of Helen Hachey sadly announces the death of their loving mother on March 29, 2026. She was born in Bathurst, NB in 1941, to Mary (Cassidy) and Lionel Duguay and was married to the late Ralph Hachey for 41 years.
For over 6 decades, Helen's musical talent on piano and pipe organ has graced mass services at Holy Family Church. Her loyal commitment is a testament to her passion for music and her deep Catholic faith. The beautiful music she provided for weddings, funerals, concerts and many community celebrations enriched all in attendance.
She was loved by her 5 children Mark (Jocelyne) Hachey, Stephen Hachey, Gary Hachey of Bathurst, NB, Carol (Dan) MacDonald of Halifax, NS and Kristine (Kendall) Johnston of New Maryland, NB.
Helen was Nana to Elise & Arielle Hachey, and Charlee, Kate and Lauren Johnston. She loved spending time with them and cherished their visits.
Loving sisters: Anne Marie McCarthy (late Bill) of Burlington, ON, Jean Boylan (late Robert) of Bathurst, NB and Clare Arseneau (Alfred) of Bathurst, NB.
She was predeceased by her 3 brothers John, James, and David Duguay.
She is also survived by 2 brothers- in- law: Donald (Carrol) Hachey of New Jersey, US and Claude Hachey of South Tetagouche, NB and adored by 21 nieces and nephews.
Her early childhood piano lessons led to a lifetime of music. At 16, she became the church organist and continued until the present.
She accompanied and directed Take Note, a women's vocal ensemble, who performed at concerts, seniors' homes, and various events. Her love of harmony was instilled in these women and she loved having the ladies over for Monday night rehearsals in her home.
Helen's interests branched out into many directions: lifelong member of Holy Family CWL, Irish Canadian Cultural Association, Bathurst Community Concert Band, Phantom Jazz Band, Men in Black quartet, the Bathurst Music Festival, and the former Acadie-Bathurst Titans.
She touched the lives of hundreds of piano students of all ages, some of whom have gone on to continue their career in the music industry. Her gentle manner left a lasting impression on her students, many of whom continue to keep in touch.
Every day without her will be a reminder of how much we all miss her and her beautiful smile.
Visitation will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026 from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. at Elhatton Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com). Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 from Holy Family Church.
Donations in memory of Helen may be made to Holy Family Church or a charity of one's choosing.
