Helen Sheffield Roberts

Helen was born in Rochester, New York to Ada and Milton Gentle where they lived until Milton’s death in 1934. The family then moved west to California where they eventually settled in San Diego. Helen was one of six children and grew up in a happy and boisterous home with a loving mother and stepfather, Frank Mantle.

Helen graduated from Kearny High School in 1947 and then enrolled in Mercy School of Nursing. She was a registered nurse, working in the Operating Room at Mercy Hospital for 40 years. She was adored by fellow nurses and doctors alike and would happily recount stories of her days in the OR until her final days.

Helen married Aaron Roberts on February 24, 1951 and they spent over 63 years together until his passing in November 2014. They had two cherished daughters; Penelope and Beth Ann.

She was a devoted grandmother to Heather, Courtney and Benjamin and mother-in-law to David and John.

Helen was an avid Dodgers fan and bled Dodger Blue. Her favorite player of all time was Sandy Koufax and Vin Scully held a special place in her heart.

She was a long time active member of Atonement Lutheran Church where she was involved in many church activities including time spent as a Sunday School teacher and most famously for cheerfully singing in the church choir.

Helen was known for her thoughtfulness and compassion. She loved sending letters and notes to all of the people who were in her prayers. She loved to sing, read, camp, take steaming hot baths and spend time with her family. She was known for her cheerfulness, thoughtfulness, honesty, kindness and generosity.

She was our loving matriarch and our lives will forever be changed for the better because of her.

Helen is survived by her daughters Penelope and Beth Ann, her sons-in-law David and John. Her grandchildren Heather, Courtney and Benjamin. Her sister, Patricia and Patricia's family: Lisa, Scott, Mosana, Carter and Caitlin.

No service is scheduled at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider donating to the San Diego Blood Bank or CCSA (Community Christian Service Agency).