Helen Jean Farmer

Helen Jean Farmer, 87, of Ventura passed away Wednesday, June 13, 2012 following a brief illness. Helen was born in Los Angeles on May 3, 1925. She had been a resident of Ventura County for 36 years coming from Los Angeles in 1976.

Helen grew up during the Great Depression. Her mother, Ruth raised three children on her own during this time period. Helen and her sister, Marie Fraser, were the co-founders of the Los Angeles Funeral Society in 1957.

Helen’s career as a social worker for Child Protective Services in Los Angeles began in 1960 and continued with the County of Ventura for 33 years. She delighted placing children in loving homes. Over the years Helen established many long and endearing relationships with the children that she placed. Many of those children remained in contact with Helen during their lives.

Helen devoted much of her life to animals especially therapy dogs. She found great joy in volunteering her time at the Human Society and taking the dogs to visit at convalescent homes to brighten the days of the elderly. Helen also enjoyed spending time gardening and bird watching.

She is survived by her two sons, Michael and Christopher Farmer of Ventura; niece, Kerry Fraser Holcanson of North Hollywood; and grandson, Lucas Farmer of Corvallis, Oregon; as well as many friends. Helen is preceded in death by her husband, James L. Farmer in 1975, sister, Marie Fraser in 2008 and brother, Theodore Welch.

The family will be planning a graveside service at a later date.

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Ventura County, 402 Bryant Street, Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 656-5031, www.humanesocietyvc.org.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home and Crematory, 3150 Loma Vista Rd., Ventura. Condolences may be left at TedMayrFuneralHome.com.