Helen Marie Cole

Helen completed her education at Baruch College. In 1951, Helen married Vincent Cole. Their family began to expand with the birth of Ron, followed by David. During that time, the family moved to Hollis, NY.

The family chose St. Gabriel’s, Episcopal as their home church for 63 years. Helen Cole was a devoted, faithful, active member and servant of this parish family. She served on the Vestry, taught Sunday School, sung in the choir for 17 years, and was a member of the Episcopal Church Women. Her sweet clear voice soared from the choir stall and, without having to look, everyone knew that the beautiful musical sound came from Helen Cole. Helen was also an accomplished organist. Over the years Helen unselfishly gave of her time and talent. Helen never failed to show up on Gala Night to assist the teachers and children with the performance!

In 1984 Helen retired after 39 years of service with the U.S. Federal Government as a medical records supervisor. From 1993 to 1997 she worked at St. Gabriel’s Woodhull Day School as the registrar.

Helen’s love for God was not only reflected in her service to the church, but also in her cheery disposition, joyful spirit and sense of humor.

Helen was a curious learner and loved to travel. She was crowned “Scrabble Champion” by her grandchildren, who knew better than to challenge any of her words! She had no mercy when it came to winning! More recently, she always had her iPad aka “My Baby” nearby to keep her entertained. In addition, Helen enjoyed the sweeter things in life….literally! Licorice jellybeans, Tootsie Roll lollipops, hot tea with three heaping spoons of sugar, and red wine with a teaspoon of sugar. Needless to say, dessert was her favorite part of dinner!

What a legacy of devotion and love for the family Helen leaves behind! She would often mention that her thoughts were filled with gratitude and pride for her sons and each of their families. She was so proud of each and every one of her grandchildren’s and great grandchildren’s accomplishments and encouraged them all to pursue their dreams. She applauded every success, big or small. Helen instilled the value of higher education and perseverance. She was a true matriarch who was respected and deeply loved; her impact and influence lives on through her immediate and extended family.

Helen was preceded in death by her mother, Mabel Illidge and her husband, Vincent Cole. She is survived by sons Ronald (Kristi) and David (Patrina); grandchildren: Ron, Jr. (Melissa), Justin (Thalia), Melina, Marcus, Cory, Deona (LaShawn), Maxwell; great grandchildren: Jaydon, Gianna, Julian, Jackson; niece/Goddaughter: Deborah Chaplin; host of uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews in St. Maarten/Aruba/Curaçao; and numerous friends.

Our Mom, Ma Helen, Nenie, Auntie and Nana will be deeply missed!

A visitation for Helen will be held Wednesday, January 4, 2023 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Roswell Funeral Home, 950 Mansell Road, Roswell, GA 30076. A formal Funeral Service will follow on Thursday, January 12, 2023 at 11: 00 AM with a Public Viewing taking place prior at 10:00 AM at St. Gabriel Hollis Episcopal Church 196-12 Jamaica Ave, Queens, NY 11423. Live streaming of the services will begin at 10:30 AM at: https://youtu.be/FbTzLOhhSRk

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen Cole's memory at the Alzheimer's Association https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=32112&32112.donation=form1