Helen M. Merrill Simonson

She was born on December 23, 1920 in Horton, NY, the daughter of the late Adar E. and Elsie C. (Couch) Merrill. Helen graduated from A.L. Kellogg High School in Treadwell.

Helen was a local businesswoman. She owned and operated Photography by Helen in Margaretville, was part owner of several farms in the greater Oneonta area, and then later in life Helen became a co-owner/operator of Able Equipment Company on Oneonta’s Southside.

Throughout her life, animals were always one of Helen’s greatest joys. She was an accomplished breeder of champion Siamese cats and Pekingese dogs, and various other breeds. She also loved to work in her vegetable and flower gardens, and enjoyed quilting and crocheting.

Helen was a member and trustee of the First United Presbyterian Church of Oneonta.

She is survived by her children, Carla Alarcon, Crystal Carson, Leslie (Sheri) Frazier II, Helen (Donald) Chamberlain, Clara Frazier Williams, Evelyn (Michael) Frazier-Kesel, and Mary (Bruce) Wrench; her step-children, James Frazier, Barbara (Kendall) Burdick, and Joanne (Roger) Wilms; and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Helen was predeceased by her first husband, Carl Faunce; her second husband, Leslie Frazier; and her third husband, Marvin Simonson.

A Celebration of Helen’s life will take place at 1pm on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at the First United Presbyterian Church, 2 Walling Avenue, Oneonta, with the Rev. Dr. Cynthia Walton-Leavitt officiating.

Friends and family may visit at the church from 12pm-1pm prior to the service at which time Helen’s family will receive guests. Helen will be laid to rest in the Oneonta Plains Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Helen’s family requests that you kindly consider making a donation in her memory to the First United Presbyterian Church, 2 Walling Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820.