Helen M. Stecklair passed peacefully to the Lord on November 1, 2022, surrounded by loving family.
Helen was born in Philadelphia in 1931 to Laura (nee Riley) and James Caulfield. She was one of six children: sister Dot and brothers Larry, Frank, Roger, and Jim. She attended Most Blessed Sacrament Grade School and West Catholic High School for Girls.
Helen and husband Frank married at the age of 21 and enjoyed a remarkable 70 years together. Their honeymoon in Miami and the Florida Keys was the first of many vacation experiences as a couple and with family. Destinations included multiple locations “down the shore”, Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, Michigan, New England, Nevada, Niagara Falls, North Carolina Outer Banks, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington DC, Wyoming, Bermuda, Canada, France, Ireland and the Panama Canal. Casino visits were always popular, in Atlantic City and at the other destinations. Their first home was in Philadelphia, followed by 54 years in Springfield before moving to West Chester.
Helen and Frank were blessed with six children: Frank, the late Gerry (Rita), Laura (Vic), Roseanne (Dave), Joe (Diane) and Walt (Michele). Their children truly appreciate the education and experience opportunities enabled thru the efforts and sacrifices of Helen and Frank. Helen also cherished her many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
Helen never sought recognition or praise for the many ways in which she helped others. She was instrumental in the upbringing and development of her four grandchildren: Ben and Caitlin Herres, and Austin and Dylan Stecklair. Volunteer roles included St. Dorothy Grade School, Cardinal O’Hara High School, Brownies, Cub Scouts, and Telecommunications Device for the Deaf operator. Many other relatives and friends benefitted from her behind the scenes support.
Helen’s hobbies included cooking, knitting, puzzle books, bingo and reading. A special memory was meeting favorite author Lisa Scottoline for a house tour, lunch and photo.
In addition to husband Frank, children and grandchildren, Helen is survived by sisters-in-law Sister Roseanne Marie IHM, Sister Judith Mary IHM and Joey Caulfield.
While we will miss Helen dearly, we are grateful for God’s gift of her in our lives. She will live on in our hearts, in our minds and thru the generous love she bestowed on her family and friends.
The Viewing will be held on Wednesday, November 9 from 9:30 – 10:45am at St. Dorothy Church in Drexel Hill, followed by Funeral Mass at 11:00am. Interment at Saint Peter and Paul Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camilla Hall Convent Home of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Mailing information is available at camillahall.org and direct donations can be made at https://secure.etransfer.com/EFT/custom/SIHM/FlexBlockCode/Donation1.cfm?d2org=SRSofIHM&d2tool=donate.
