Helen Batis

September 6, 2025

Our hearts are broken as we share that our beloved mother, Helen Batis, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025.

Born and raised in Corona, Queens, Helen was the cherished daughter of Greek immigrants Nicholas and Caliope. She carried their values of love, faith, and hard work throughout her life and passed them on to all who knew her.

Helen was the heart of our family—a devoted wife to Alex for 56 beautiful years, a loving mother to Effie (Leon), Thomas (Fran), Nicholas (Pat), and James (Hillary), and a cherished sister to Gus, Jim, and Cathy. She was also the proud grandmother of Desiree, Lisa, Jennifer, Nicole, Joshua, TJ, David, Livia, and Julianna, and the joyful great-grandmother of Mikaella, James, Maddy, Jayden, Koby, Elijah, Kaley, Jacob, and Landon. Each of them brought her endless joy.

Her quiet humor could brighten any moment. We’ll forever remember her gentle ways, her signature “oh boy” that made us laugh, and the ever-present spoon in her hand, always ready to feed her grandchildren.

Helen's care and compassion extended far beyond our family. She dedicated much of her life to serving others. As a caregiver in a Queens nursing home, she brought dignity and comfort to the elderly. Later, as a teacher’s aide in the NYC school system, she supported children with disabilities with boundless patience, tenderness, and unwavering dedication.

She worked tirelessly—often holding two jobs—not only to provide for her family, but to ensure they had every opportunity and comfort she could give. She was encouraging, endlessly supportive, and sweetly optimistic. Her life was a testament to quiet strength, grace, and a spirit of giving.

Through her actions, she taught us what it means to show up for others with love, resilience, and joy.

We miss her more than words can express. But her spirit lives on—in the stories we tell, the traditions she passed down, and the love she poured into every one of us.

We all search for the meaning of life and our purpose here. Helen only needed to look in the mirror. As she steps into the next life, no doubt she will feel a hand on her shoulder—the hand of God—thanking her for all she did for the least among us.

And now, she joins her beloved parents and siblings at the eternal holiday table, where her laughter will echo forever beyond this world.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association. https://diabetes.org