A woman who spent most of her life working to make the Valley better for those who lived here has died.

Helen Paes was a long-time Valley business professional who served the community in multiple capacities over the years.

Helen began her broadcast news career in Springfield, Ohio, before returning to Valley, where she served as News Director of the former WBBW-WQOD radio stations for 12 years. She also worked as a news producer at WFMJ-TV and moderated some local PBS programs.

Paes was elected the president of the Ohio Press Broadcasters Association in 1980. By 1986, Paes was named the coordinator of public affairs for the Buick-Oldsmobile-Cadillac Group at the Lordstown Complex.

In 1987, Paes returned to news but in a different capacity, working at The Youngstown Vindicator as director of community affairs. Among her multiple duties, she also oversaw the running of the Vindicator Spelling Bee and coordinated the Vindicator giveaways at the Canfield Fair tent.

Helen made a name for herself early in her career. In 1990, she was the first recipient of the Athena Award, which recognizes outstanding business and professional women in our community. Paes returned in 2017 as the keynote speaker at the event's 25th anniversary. She also served on the Athena board.

In 2005, Paes received the Ohio Association for Community Leadership's Distinguished Program Award and was also a recipient of the YWCA's "Woman of the Year" award.

In 2006, Paes joined the Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber as the vice president of business services. That same year, she—who was proud of her Irish heritage—was named Lord Mayor of Kilkenny for the Mahoning Valley St. Patrick's Day parade.

In 2010, Paes turned talents to help those battling dementia, taking the role of Development and Media Coordinator at Alzheimer's Association, Greater East Ohio Area Chapter.

Over the years, Paes served on the boards of Leadership Mahoning Valley and the International Institute Foundation. She was also a member of the Boards of Directors of the Mahoning Chapter of the American Red Cross, Hospice of the Valley, United Way, Ballet Western Reserve, Junior Achievement, and the Youngstown Arts Council.

Paes was also a member and served as the vice president of The Junior League of Youngstown, serving until 2021.

Paes graduated from Ohio University in Athens with a bachelor of science degree and did postgraduate work in management studies.

Helen grew up in New Middletown and lived in the Valley until 2023, when she moved to Columbus to be near family.

Paes died on April 28. She was 74 years old.