Helen Francis Jett

Helen Jett passed away at the age of 89 on June 23, 2023. Helen was proceeded in death by her husband Charles (Chuck), her daughter Cathie and son Steve. Helen is survived by her son Charles (wife Trudy) and daughter Susan. Helen cherished her grandchildren Rachel Kittinger, Heather Beckwith, Zachariah Jett, and Gabriel Jett as well as great grandchildren, many relatives in the Midwest, and countless friends and neighbors.

Helen Stoker was born March 28, 1934. After school, she was working as a telephone operator in Missouri when she met her future husband. Charles, the handsome veteran, who served both in the army and the air force, won her heart and she became part of the “Jett Set” in 1954. They began their family, welcoming their children: Charles, Catherine (Cathie), Steve, and Susan. After some years, the family moved to Bremerton so that Charles could work in the shipyard, but Helen always kept close touch with the family in Midwest. Together, they made friends, raised the kids, and focused on family. Charles passed away on Jan.12,1999, but Helen persevered, never losing sight of her focus on family along with her circle of friends and neighbors.

Helen showed her practical Midwest upbringing with a strong faith, her can-do attitude, and independent spirit. In her life she became a wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and long-time friend for so many. She was always there to listen and help if you had a problem. Some were lucky enough to receive gifts of jelly, jams, beef jerky, and soups made with Helen’s kitchen loving hands. She was not a person who wasted anything, particularly food, and was a good seamstress as well, repairing clothes for family and friends.

Helen dedicated more than 25 years as a volunteer at the Bremerton Foodline. She started there as a volunteer repackaging bulk foods and then moved to the front lobby to sort and display clothing, shoes, and household goods in an area that would become known as “Helen’s Closet” She would set aside something for a particular client knowing that their need was great. Helen was also there with her family members joining in at most of the big events each year, sorting food donations, assembling holiday baskets, and handing out treats. Her White Chicken Chili was a favorite treat she made for the volunteers who came to help.

This spring Helen started an RV trip with Charles and Susan hoping to relive memories and return to places she loved in her life. That was not to be, as she suffered a stroke. We want to believe that when her time came, Helen was welcomed by her loved ones that went before with loving arms and the eternal peace she has well earned. In heaven there is a new star in our sky, visible to all. It is Helen shining her light and joy on us all.

A favorite photo of her family gathered for her 75th birthday is included along with a photo of Helen receiving a Silver Platter Award in recognition of her exemplary and long service to others and a poster photo celebrating that 75th birthday captured by daughter, Cathie.

If you choose to make a memorial, the family requests donations to be made to the Bremerton Foodline in her name.