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Helen P. Williamson
March 29, 1930 – January 20, 2026
Helen P. Williamson was born on March 29, 1930, in New York City, the only child of Mary and Peter Peterson. Her mother passed away on July 27, 1998, and her father on December 24, 1936.
Helen was a proud graduate of Newtown High School, Class of 1948, where she distinguished herself academically as the class salutatorian. Following graduation, she began her professional career in the Advertising Department of the American Hard Rubber Company. She later advanced to serve as Advertising Manager for the Bank of Commerce, a role she held until her marriage.
On May 16, 1964, Helen married Douglas Williamson. Their marriage was one of deep partnership and love until Douglas’s passing on January 17, 1978.
Faith was a cornerstone of Helen’s life. She began attending Elmhurst Baptist Church in 1940 and remained deeply devoted to the congregation for decades. Her service to the church was extensive and meaningful. She served as a member of the Board of Trustees, Financial Secretary, Sunday School Teacher, and as an active member of the Publicity, Memorial, Program, and Pulpit Committees. Her commitment reflected both her faith and her belief in service to community.
Helen also gave generously of her time beyond the church, volunteering at Elmhurst Hospital for seven years, where her kindness and reliability left a lasting impact.
She had a deep love for the arts, especially the theater, and found great joy in traveling. One of her proudest accomplishments was visiting all 50 states alongside her closest and dearest friend, Felisa Colon. Well into her seventies, Helen embraced life with remarkable enthusiasm and courage, proving herself an adventurer at heart. She rode in hot air balloons and went dog mushing with Eskimo dogs in Alaska, experiences that captured her fearless spirit and curiosity for the world.
Helen will be remembered for her intelligence, devotion, generosity, and quiet strength. Her life was marked by service, faith, friendship, and an unwavering willingness to say yes to new adventures. She leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and inspiration that will be cherished by all who knew her.