Atkinson's first female selectman dies at 86

From the eagle tribune;

Atkinson's first female selectman dies at 86

By Bryan Deyermond bdeyermond@eagletribune.com

ATKINSON — Helen Woodlock, the town's first female selectman, died Tuesday at the age of 86.

Woodlock served two terms as a selectman in the 1970s after working in the tax collector's office for many years. She followed in the footsteps of her husband, Paul Woodlock Sr., who served several terms as a selectman. Her son, Paul Jr., said his mother always wanted to do what was right for Atkinson.

"She's remembered for doing the best for the town in making key changes and modernizing Atkinson," he said.

The Woodlocks were strong supporters of the town's recreation program.

In honor of their work, the recreation area on Pope Road was named after the couple. Her husband died in 1988.

Selectman Bill Bennett said Woodlock, his former neighbor, was best known for her kindness and compassion.

"She was always involved in everything, always making wise decisions for the town," he said.

Woodlock, the mother of six children, taught kindergarten at a nursery school in Atkinson.

She also worked as a photographer for two local newspapers.

Her granddaughter, Sherri Borgal, said Woodlock was an inspiration.

"She was just a very progressive woman," Borgal said.

Visiting hours are today from 4 to 7 p.m. at Linnehan-Grondin Funeral Home in Haverhill. A funeral service will be held there at 10 a.m. Saturday.