Helen G. (Schlenker) Richards

Helen G. Richards died Monday, September 16, 2024, at Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina, Ohio.  She was born in Slatington, Pennsylvania, to Roland D. and Ruth G. (Wineberg) Schlenker, and graduated from DuBois (PA) High School.  After having worked in Buffalo and Niagara Falls, NY, she married Donald C. Richards, a U.S. Navy veteran.  Helen lived for many years in Erie, PA.  Her parents and her husband predeceased her.  Her daughter, Diane R. (Richards) Brey, and son-in-law, Donald C. Brey, of Columbus, Ohio, survive her.

            Helen was an active member of Elmwood United Presbyterian Church in Erie, PA, serving as a Sunday school teacher and assisting with the youth group and fund-raising activities for the church, and later participating in senior groups at the church.  She served on the PTA of Perry School and Sacred Heart School in Erie while her daughter attended school there.  She was devoted to her family and cared for her parents during their old age. She made her home bright and cheerful for all who lived there and visited.  

            After she moved to Ohio, she participated in craft and exercise classes and other activities, and made many new friends where she lived.  All who met her loved her and appreciated her welcoming smile.  She enjoyed visiting with her daughter, eating dinner with friends, and going on day and overnight trips with her daughter and family to see the sights of her new state (Ohio).  She looked forward to Christmas and other festivities at her daughter’s house and with her son-in-law’s family.

            Helen was the best mother anyone could have had.  She will be sorely missed by her daughter and son-in-law and all those who knew her.

            Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let Your perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers friends who wish may contribute in her memory to Holy Family Soup Kitchen 588 W. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215.

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