Joyce Helen Forrester, left us on February 17, 2021, after living a 96-year life full of courageous adventure, an unmatched zest for living, and a personality that filled every room she entered. She was a leader with high expectations, a dutiful elder sister to Sheila Rose Bentzien – who preceded her in death on January 5, 2017 – and a family matriarch who cared and loved us all greatly. This is who we lay to rest on March 20, 2021, at Miller-Woodlawn Funeral Home, in Bremerton, Washington, with heavy hearts but with memories abounding full of laughter, love, grace, and stories of a lifetime.
During WWII, Helen worked at the British Admiralty in the Codes and Syphers area, serving her native country, England. As the war ended and the Americans were leaving their English stations, Helen met a Navel Officer, Robert Stockdale Forrester. After a short, long-distance courtship, she joined Bob in America, became an American citizen, and they made their home in Bremerton, Washington, for 24 years. Both she and Bob were gardening enthusiasts not only at their home, but Helen brought her talents to the Bremerton Garden Club, wining special mention for her efforts from then Governor Dan Evans. Bob showed young Helen many sights as they traveled abroad extensively throughout their marriage. Sadly, Helen lost Bob in 1969.
Helen went on to finish her Associates degree, learned to speak Spanish and French, continued to travel, lived in Spain for five years, and garnered lifetime friendships along the way. Her passion for politics and historical arts took her to Washington, DC, where she retired after 13 years from her Executive Secretarial position when the General she worked for also retired. Helen then eagerly volunteered for many years as a garden docent for the Marjorie Merriweather Post Hillwood Museum guiding visitors through the beautiful grounds of the Post Family home.
Returning home to the Pacific Northwest, she enjoyed her final years comfortably on a lake with a lovely garden, finding love again, and being close to family. Her elegance, style, and grace continuing to win her friendships and respect to her last breath.
Helen is survived by niece, Helen Jane Ross; nephew, Alan Brough Wardle (Debbie); great-nephews Lyle Schneider (Lei Lani), Tyler Wardle (Kathryn), Graham Wardle, and Benjamin Wardle; great-nieces Jaimie Smith (Troy), Claire Wardle, Joy Anne Wardle, and Grace Wardle; great-great nephew Mason Smith; and great-great niece Edie Wardle. Your thoughtful donations would be welcome to Helen’s treasured Marjorie Merriweather Post Hillwood Museum in her name.
Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let your perpetual light shine upon her. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
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