Helen Beaver (nee Gildea) of Holmesburg passed away Sept. 9, 2023. Helen is predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Frederick. She is survived by seven children, Frederick (Mindi), James (Lorraine), Maureen Davi (Gerry McNeil), Mark (Terri), Joanne Dombrowski (Luke), Denise O'Brien (Peter), Eileen Landgraf (the late Robert) as well as 16 grandchildren, Mark, Kelly, Drew, Lauren, James, Ben, Blaise, Michael, Patrick, Joseph, Bernadette, Colleen, Bridget, Emily, Robert and Daniel as well as 12 great grandchildren, Sam, Nora, Cody, Charlie, Owen, Audrey, Hunter, Ronan, Calvin, Mary, Emily and Ryann.

Helen is also predeceased by her brother, James Gildea (Theresa) and sister, Catherine McLaughlin (Edward) and son-in-law, Robert Landgraf. She remained close with her many Gildea and McLaughlin nieces and nephews.

Helen, age 94, took an active interest in family and friends. She enjoyed meeting new friends and always seemed to find a connection to her Port Richmond and St. Anne's roots. Helen was a proud graduate of Hallahan High as was her mother, Mary Gildea (Boyle). Her father, Denis, was a native of Donegal, Ireland. She often shared stories of her childhood on Somerset St. and Cohocksink Rec.

Helen and Fred raised their family in Holmesburg and she began a new career in 1972 with Drywall Finishers Local 1955. She loved the union and came to know many members and their families.

Helen and Fred moved to North Wildwood some 20 years ago. There she reconnected with old friends and made many new friends. Mom wanted to send a special thanks to Maureen and Jack Devlin, Pat and Roger Belz, Pat Peters and the late Kenny, for their faithful friendship. An avid reader and lifelong Jeopardy fan she looked forward to the morning paper and coffee. Never fussy but always stylish and immensely proud of her Irish heritage.

Wherever Helen made home, it was a warm, welcoming spot with a lot of laughter. We will cherish Mom's ever present interest in our lives as well as those of our children. Her incredible memory never ceased to amaze.

She will be greatly missed and who could ask for more after they have left this life.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday September 19, 2023, at Our lady of Calvary, 11024 Knights Rd. Philadelphia, PA 19154 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM followed by her Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers or donations, please perform an act of kindness.