Helene A. Reiley

Helene A. Reiley, 78, of Lancaster, formerly of Palo Alto died Wednesday at Lancaster General Hospital, Lancaster. She was born February 20, 1931 in East Mines daughter of the late James and Sarah Haslam Hess. She was a graduate of St. Clair High School and was employed by Schoenemen Beauty Supply, Inc. prior to retiring in 1997. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Pottsville, Circle 5 of the church and taught Sunday School in the Nursery. While in Lancaster, she attended St. Edwards Episcopal Church. She was also Palo Alto Borough Assessor for many years. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Reiley in 1996: 2 sisters, Laura Gerace and Doris Strollo: a brother, James Hess. Surviving are 3 children, James F. Gayeuski and his wife, Tish, Palo Alto, Dr. Margaret "Peg" Reiley, Lancaster, and Kevin J. Reiley and his wife, Kathy, Schuylkill Haven: 5 grandchildren, Alina Gayeuski, Daniel and Rachael Smith and Stephen and Faith Reiley: nieces and nephews. Helene loved life but more than that she loved her children and grandchildren. She loved to travel especially with her family. She was the epitome of kindness, gentleness, compassion and love. A friend to all, Helene gave of herself asking nothing in return. She was escorted by angles into Jesus' open arms and in the love of God she now rests. Services will be held on Monday at 11:00 A.M. from Trinity Lutheran Church, Pottsville, with Rev. Harold L. Hand, Jr. and Rev. Darcy M. Reis officiating. Family and friends may call at the church from 9:00 A.M. till the time of service. The family would prefer remembrances in the form of contributions made to the American Cancer Society, 16 N. 4th St., Minersville, PA 17954 or Trinity Lutheran Church, 300 W. Arch St., Pottsville, PA 17901. Entombment will be at Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. A memorial service celebrating Helene's life will take place on Tuesday, February 9th at noon from St. Edwards Episcopal Church, 2453 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster with Rev. Stephen Casey officiating. James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville, is in charge of arrangements.