Mary L. (Simpson) Helsel

Mary Louise Simpson

                                                                             Aug 29 1942 - Aug 15 2019
My mother never wanted an obituary, saying it was God who deserves the praise of anything she accomplished in life and who she was. So this is a daughters remembrance of a truly special mother and woman. The deep loving bond we shared and forever will. My mom was born in Columbus Ohio to Carmel Lucille Easterman and James Vernon Simpson. She married Thomas Helsel . She was such a light in the world , kind,loving, compassionate, inspiring and funny. She taught me the importance of honesty, integrity and laughter even at yourself in the which we did often. I always admired her love of life long learning. She started her education at age 42 in LPN school and graduated at 64 with her masters in nursing, while working full-time first at Pennknoll, then the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home. She loved geriatric nursing especially the ambulatory Alzheimer’s residence. She encouraged everyone to pursue their dreams rather it be college, trade school or just self learning. She taught me to educate myself looking at other views and then form my own opinions. She loved God and his beautiful painted canvas of the nature around us. She loved all the Gods creatures, she especially enjoyed watching Schelly( the Schellsburg bear as she called her ) in the front yard playing with her 4 cubs.
She taught me to have an personal relationship with Jesus , talk to him everyday and ask forgiveness because no one is always perfect.
Although she was sick herself she prayed endlessly for the other children who are sick and suffering. She wrapped loving arms around me when I lost my son. She just wasn’t my mother she was my best friend, my confidant and my world. I loved her so deeply and always will.
Welcoming her with open arm : Jesus, her husband Tom, infant daughter Tina, Her mom and Dad, Gary Pfahler jr- grandson, an infant great grandson and Jill Simpson- Niece.
Surviving are a daughter Lisa Mcdannell and husband Rick, a son James Endress jr and wife Kathy, brother James Simpson and wife Joyce, special friend Lori Ramsey, 10 grandkids, 25 great grandchildren. Many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
At the request of my mother a private internment will be held. In lieu of flowers please donate to someone in need either on gofundme ,St Jude or Shriners Hospital.

 

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