Helen Stella Mathena

Helen Stella Mathena passed away peacefully on April 17th, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the remarkable age of 99. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Anthony Gallo, and her second husband, Kermit Mathena.

Born on November 27, 1925, in Brooklyn, New York, Helen was the second of five children of Eugene and Stella Pugliese. She was preceded in death by her siblings Lillian, Eugene, and Josephine, and is survived by her youngest brother, Leon.

Helen is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Barbara, widow of the late Michael Breglia, and her two sons, Anthony Gallo with his wife Laura, and Ronald Gallo with his wife Debbie.

She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Richard, Thomas, Renée, Erika, Anthony, Joseph, Ronald, and Megan; three great-grandchildren: Brandon, Nathaniel, and Capulet; and one great-great-granddaughter, Leighton. To all of them, she was affectionately known as “Nana.”

Helen’s family was everything to her. She never missed an opportunity to brag about them to anyone and everyone. She adored family gatherings especially during the holidays. She had a legendary sweet tooth for all types of desserts and enjoyed an evening cup of hot tea. Helen was a motherly figure to many and left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

Helen was exceptionally proud of her Italian heritage. Her deep devotion to the Roman Catholic faith was unwavering, serving as a constant source of strength and guidance throughout her life.

Helen’s favorite holiday was Thanksgiving which for decades was tied to her birthday celebration. To keep with this cherished family tradition, a memorial will be held on November 15th, 2025 in celebration of her eternally beautiful life and what would have been her 100th birthday. Guests are kindly asked to wear purple, Helen’s favorite color.