Helen G. (Woll) Farry, age 97, passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024.
She leaves behind those who loved her most, her daughter, Patricia A. Potter, her partner Chris; daughter Barbara C. Flynn, her husband Thomas; daughter Jeannette F. Shannon, her husband Michael; daughter Susan E. Matulewicz, her husband Thomas; son Dr. John P. Farry, his wife Eileen; son-in-law, William R. Calabrese; Grandchildren, Colleen (Niki) Farry, Briane (Robert) Lee, Kiera (Christopher) Garcia, Caitrin (Peter) Matkiwsky, Tierney (Michael) Gonnello, Eily Farry, Margaret (Edward) Bove, Michael Calabrese, Jesse Shannon, Laura Shannon, Samantha (Andrew) Melancon, Nicole Driscoll, Jackson Potter, Daniel Potter, Matthew Potter and Katherine Potter, and 11 great grandchildren. Helen was preceded in death by husband, Gerard F. Farry, first husband Richard E. Relkin, daughter MaryJean Calabrese and son Robert A. Farry.
Helen grew up in Flushing, Queens NY and was the daughter of Gertrude Schimpf Woll and Anthony Woll. She attended New York University and graduated in the class of 1948 with a BA degree in English. She then went on to get her Education degree from CCNY. She lived in Maryland, Philadelphia and then eventually settled in NJ, remaining there for most of her life, primarily settling in Livingston, Chatham and Mendham. She taught school in Newark, Livingston, and Summit, NJ, mainly in the 5th grade, but later assisted in a special education classroom. Many summers growing up were spent with cousins in Saugerties NY and on the farm in Sherman CT. In later years, time was enjoyed down the shore, at Beach Haven, Long Beach Island, with family and friends.
Helen had a love for writing throughout her life. She put her talents to work contributing pieces in several local anthology publications and also wrote for her senior living community news publication. She was an avid reader of Historical, non fiction, and was a member of several book clubs. Helen also loved creative outlets and was passionate about her hobbies including: drawing, tole painting, rug hooking, bird watching, collecting owls and current events. She was known for her perseverance and tenacity, her sarcastic wit, and her love for her family and friends.
A celebration of Helen’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please give a memorial contribution to your local library in Helen’s name. Arrangements are in the care of Richard H Keenan Funeral Home, Fairport, NY.