Helen Parrish Beach, 78, of Lexington, Kentucky, passed away on October 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on August 31, 1948, Helen was the daughter of the late Susan Hyde and David Curtis Parrish, Jr. She cherished her childhood on her family farm in Paris, Kentucky, where days spent with family and cousins created memories she held dear throughout her life.
Helen graduated from Sayre School in Lexington, Kentucky, and from the University of Kentucky, where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. Following college, she returned to Sayre School, where she taught kindergarten for a short time.
In 1975, Helen married Charles Beach III of Beattyville, Kentucky. Together, they raised two children, Taylor and Charlie, and built a life centered on family, friendship, and community.
Helen was actively involved in her community throughout her life. She served as president of the Beattyville Woman's Club and was a devoted member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Beattyville. She was also a member of Idle Hour Country Club, the Keeneland Club and Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Lexington.
Helen's upbeat personality and wonderful sense of humor were among her most endearing qualities. She had a gift for making others feel welcome and at ease, always finding a reason to laugh and enjoy life's simple moments. Her infectious laughter and joyful spirit brought warmth and happiness to everyone around her.
Above all, Helen's greatest joy was her family. She was a loving wife, mother and devoted grandmother. Helen especially loved sharing her creativity with her grandchildren, spending time together crafting, painting, and baking. Through these special moments, she passed along her imagination, curiosity, and love of creating, leaving them with memories they will carry the rest of their lives.
Helen is survived by her husband, Charles Beach III; her children, Taylor Moloney (Whit) and Charles Beach IV (Ceci); her four grandchildren, Catherine Elliott Moloney, Caroline Fielding Moloney, Eliza Lanman Beach, and Charles Shackelford Beach; her brother, Rodes Shackelford Parrish; and her sister, Leslie Parrish Isaacs (Bruce).
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Susan Hyde and David Curtis Parrish, Jr.
Visitation will be held at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church on Friday, October 16, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at noon. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at Idle Hour Country Club from 1:15 to 3:15 p.m. to celebrate Helen’s life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Lexington, Kentucky.
