Helen P. Guidace

Lexington, S.C. - Helen P. Guidace, age 89, died at home surrounded by her family on Friday, January 2, 2026. She was born on September 30, 1936 in Altoona PA., and was the daughter of the late Domenico Tanzi and Mary Grace Palmucci. She graduated from Altoona High School, class of 1954 and immediately after graduation, she embarked on her life’s journey and her love of Washington, D.C. and Virginia.

She moved to Washington, D.C. in 1954 employed by the Department of Agriculture. She worked tirelessly and continuously for over 31 years with various federal agencies, including the Automobile Association, Rural General Electric and the Department of Energy while raising her family. A beloved second mother to many and a generous and fun loving friend to be cherished by many more, she left a tremendous impact on all who were lucky enough to know her. She was so special.

Widow of Vincent C. Guidace whom she married in 1959. They enjoyed 58 years of marriage before his passing in 2017. He was the love of her life. Throughout their life together they enjoyed spending many vacations with family and friends in Ocean City, MD and on Lake Murray in Lexington, SC and another 20 years of retirement bliss in these areas.

She was predeceased by her siblings Thomas, John Anthony, Marguerite, Anna Rose, Lena and Jean and has one surviving sibling Domenico “Corky” (Linda).

A loving and devoted wife and mother she leaves behind daughter Donna (Guidace) Pitts of Annandale, VA, who is married to Helen’s much adored son-in-law Dr. Thomas Pitts of Columbia, SC and leaves behind another daughter Kristen Guidace of Germantown, MD and her friend Catherine Hekimian. Additionally, there are many nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews, along with many caring relatives and friends who loved her dearly. Burial will be at a later date at Calvary Cemetery in Altoona, PA.