Helen A. Gleghorn

Helen Gleghorn, 91, left this world to join her God, on December 26, 2011. She was born July 18, 1920 the eldest of 4, born to Harley and Emma (Murray) Leake in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She spent her childhood and early adult years there, until she met Bill. They were married in 1941 and settled in Harbor City, California. These were the war years and Bill worked long hours. Son Bill was born in 1942, then 3 lovely little girls Judy, Linda Diane and Carol. These were busy times, but very happy ones. She became lifelong friends with many of her neighbors.

She held house parties, taught Sunday school, and had a Campfire group for several years. Life was somewhat chaotic, raising 4 kids during that time but she and Bill rode out the triumphs and heartbreaks together. The family took many day-trips and vacations camping out, hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Helen enjoyed some hobbies of her own: exchanging genealogical materials with her family members, growing lovely flowers and gardens, hunting down Hallmark ornaments and becoming part of a writing group.

After bill died, she filled her life with a group of friends at the Oak Harbor Southern Baptist Church. Faith was very central in her life. At the age of 84, she went on a camping trip to Mt. Baker, and she may have been among the youngest there. Helen was deeply loyal, thoughtful and pleasant. However, she had her opinions and would freely step up and share.

Holding a special place in her heart was her family. She is survived by her son William (Rocky) Gleghorn, daughter Judy Johnson (granddaughter Susan, with great grandsons Michael and Nolan Negri, granddaughter Deneice (Jeff) Chaffee and great grandson Desmond Chaffee), Diane (Lanny) Neinhuis (Grandson Bill (Melissa) Neinhuis (great grandchildren Rochelle, Walter, Lillian, Conrad and Abraham, Granddaughter Lorie (Mike) Sprouse, great grandchildren Danica and Ryan), daughter Carol Jezina (grandson Steven (great grandchildren Alexi and Christian, grandson Ive and significant other Jessica (great granddaughter Hanna), granddaughter Ana Jones with great grandchildren Marina, Nathaniel and Casey).

A Memorial Service was held Monday, January 2, 2012, at Burley Funeral Chapel followed by a reception for family and friends at the home of Diane and Lanny Nienhuis. A private graveside service will be held, at a future date. The family suggests remembrances to Waif’s Animal Shelter. Arrangements were entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, where friends may go online at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com to sign a guest register and leave memories for the family