History

Helen Fox was born during the roaring 20's, just a few years before the Great Depression. The second oldest of four, she left high school as a sophomore in order to get a job to help support her family. She married in her early 20's and raised three children, but always dreamed of completing her education.

Helen and her family moved to Kalamazoo.

In 1970, at age 50, Helen earned her High School diploma. Helen taught community music lessons in the 1970’s at the Moss Piano Studio, and continued teaching for over 30 years at her home and in the homes of her students, enriching countless lives through lessons that extended beyond music, to faith, hope and love.

In 1972, Helen was admitted to Western Michigan University’s Honors College, where she minored in Music.

At 73 years old, Helen provided music lessons to students in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek each week. Every student was expected to pay something, sometimes as little as one dollar – she believed her students would value their lessons more if they paid.

Helen continued to spend her time in the neighborhoods of Kalamazoo, supporting community members and building relationships.

Helen L. Fox, passed away on Sunday afternoon, August 14, 2016 at the age of 96. It is our goal to honor and extend her legacy of service through the Helen L. Fox Gospel Music Center (HLFGMC), where lessons in music and life will benefit generations to come.