Helene Patricia Verbickas

Helene Patricia Verbickas, age 84, of Silver Spring, Maryland, went home to the Lord on Monday, January 23.

Helene grew up in Waterbury, Connecticut.  She also lived in New York, New Jersey and Arizona prior to her relocation to Silver Spring.  She retired from the teaching profession, having taught in New York City, New Jersey, and on Air Force bases in England and Turkey.  Helene was a voracious reader, and regularly supported literacy programs for children and adults alike.

Helene was a real trailblazer, a woman ahead of her time.  She was accepted to Yale University at a time that women didn’t often go to college.  She also marched on DC as part of the civil rights movement.  She set a wonderful example for her extended family, practicing and demonstrating diversity and acceptance on a regular basis over the years.

Helene was an avid traveler.  She loved to travel and explore, and we were blessed to share in some wonderful adventures together over the years.  Helene also was a great supporter of theater.  She took part in productions while she was a student at the University of Connecticut, and while living in New York City.

Helene loved playing games.  Rummikub was a favorite game of hers, but she was always willing to learn any game that the family was playing.

We feel greatly blessed by the care that Helene received from the oncology team at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, and from Holy Cross Hospital and Hospice Care.

While we are all better people for having known Helene, and we miss her greatly on this Earth, we remain resolute in knowing that for her, this is not an end but a beginning…we know that we will see Helene again in the next life.

We thank you for all of your thoughts, prayers, and support.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a small donation to St. Joseph’s Regional Catholic School (www.stjosrcs.org) in Helene’s name to support their theater program.

Interment will be held in Connecticut at a later date.