It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Helen, who left us peacefully in Venice, Florida. Born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Helen was a vibrant soul whose journey through life was marked by love, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Marilyn Tomlin, her soulmate James Parker, and Thomas Dunlevy.
In 1969, seeking a brighter future, Helen moved to North Cape May with her three children. It was here that she met and married Jim, and together they owned and operated Bayshore Exxon. Helen’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there; she also ran Trendsetters Designer Jean store until Jim’s passing in 1985. Following his death, she took over daily operations at the gas station, demonstrating her steadfast determination and dedication to her family.
A Life of Love and Family
After her time at Bayshore Exxon, Helen found love again and married Tom Dunlevy. Together, they managed Towne Texaco, continuing the family tradition of hard work and commitment to their community. In 1996, Helen and Tom decided to retire to Florida, where she embraced her new life and filled her days with activities such as tennis and bridge.
Helen’s legacy lives on through her children: daughters Cindy (Blaine) Paynter, Tracy (Dennis) Felsing, and son Gregg Dorff (Jodie Louthe). She is also survived by her bonus kids, Lisa (Bill) Wilson, Kim (Dave) Vanaman, and Tom Dunlevy (Jennifer), along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who cherished their time with her. The love and memories shared will forever be a source of comfort for her family and friends.
A Private Farewell
In keeping with Helen’s wishes, her service was private, allowing her family to reflect quietly on the cherished moments spent with her. As we remember Helen, it’s important to consider how her life reflects broader themes in American culture, particularly around family, love, and the connections that bind us.
In the realm of memorialization and the American funeral culture, Helen’s story is a reminder of how personal histories intertwine with broader societal narratives. Research shows that American burial customs have been shaped significantly by commercial interests and ritual standardization, particularly from the mid-20th century onwards. The establishment of memorial societies in the 1950s aimed to promote alternative mourning practices and combat high funeral costs, reflecting a shift towards more personalized memorialization options. These societies played a crucial role in reshaping how we view death and remembrance today.
For those interested in exploring more about Helen’s life or contributing to memorial efforts, resources such as Find-a-Grave provide platforms for sharing memories and honoring loved ones. This site allows users to connect with cemeteries and memorial locations, making it easier to commemorate the lives of those who have passed.
As we celebrate Helen’s life, we are reminded of the impact one person can have on many, and the love that continues to resonate through family ties and shared memories. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her.