Helen V. Carter

Helen V. Carter, affectionately known as Pat, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2024 at Abington Hospital, surrounded in body and spirit by her beloved children. Born on November 18, 1929, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was a dedicated and nurturing figure throughout her life.

Helen was married to Joseph F. Carter on February 18th, 1950.   They had 65 beautiful years together.  Helen's proudest accomplishment was undoubtedly the love and care she provided while raising thirteen children with Joseph. A joy she held dear throughout her life. She is lovingly remembered by her surviving children: Joseph (Becky), Mary (Kenny), Stephen (Patti), Anne (John), Monica (Sister Joseph Marie, IHM), Teresa, Andrew (Joan), Patty, David (Betsy), Lucy (John), Gerri (Paul), Bernard (Karen), Helen (Dan) including 36 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and growing:)

Helen spent the first twenty-five years of her marriage as a devoted stay-at-home mom.  Her legacy as a nurturing caregiver extended beyond her immediate family; she took on the responsibility of looking after her brother Bob and welcomed her father and mother-in-law into her home during their times of need. After many fulfilling years at home, Helen transitioned into her career as the Office Manager for Shaeffer Electric, where she devoted an impressive 34 years of her professional life.

A proud graduate of St. Hubert's School for Girls in 1947, Helen excelled academically and was passionate about music, cherishing her time in the orchestra playing the cello. Throughout her life, she exemplified a quiet dedication and attentiveness to the needs of those around her, guided by her strong faith, which she instilled in her children. Helen was known for her wonderful sense of fashion and had an uncanny ability to listen and offer practical advice that helped those around her see things from a new perspective.

Beyond her nurturing role and professional accomplishments, Helen had a variety of hobbies that brought her joy. She was an excellent seamstress, a talented pianist, and a passionate gardener, sharing these interests with her children. In her later years, she found pleasure in reading and assembling jigsaw puzzles. She cherished visits from her children, always eager to listen to their chatter while she went about her daily tasks.

Helen was preceded in death by her loving husband, Joseph, beloved parents, Alice (Mom) and Edward (Dad), as well as her siblings Edna, George (Budd), Edward, Doris, Bob, and her grandson Benjamin.

Her viewing will be held on September 14, 2024, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, followed by a Mass at St. Matthew Church, located at 3000 Cottman Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19149, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM.

Helen V. Carter leaves behind a rich legacy of love, faith, and family, bringing comfort to all who have been touched by her warmth throughout her life.

While Mom loved flowers in her lifetime, she believed flowers were for the living.  In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to either the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in care of the IHM Office of Mission Advancement, 230 IHM Drive Malvern, PA 19355 or to the United Cerebal Palsy of Central Pennsylvania United Cerebal Palsy of Central PA