Helen Thurman

She was the neighborhood mom, keeping the members of the 8th street gang well fed. When Helen left the house she had to look perfect. She had a bit of a sweet tooth, especially cheese danish and Tastycakes. If her T.V. was on she’d be watching some game shows. Or checking out CNN; not quite a Trump fan. Later years found her being the “cool” grandmother. But she was never more herself than when she was seated around a table with her family; laughing and making a fuss. She inspired with her positive attitude; through life’s ups and downs, Helen always had a sense of humor.

A young Helen Chiaccio would meet a guy at a county fair; the late William Thurman had been stationed at Ft. Dix. They’d settle in Riverside and be blessed by sons, Billy, the late John, the late Ricky, the late Mark, the late Bobby and Kevin; and later by 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. She was pre-deceased by her siblings, Joe, Rosie, Emily, Mary, Peter and Jeanie.

Come celebrate 92 great years Saturday 9-11 a.m. at Sweeney Funeral Home, Riverside where there will be an 11 a.m. service. Interment St. Peters Cemetery, Riverside.