On December 28th 2022, Helen Martin Mitras circle of life was complete. Left to cherish her memories are sons Gibson (Deborah), Kerry (JoAnn), 7 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 5 great, great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
Helen was born in Waddington on October 13th, 1934 to Seymour Martin and Mae (Barkley) Martin. She attended Waddington schools and graduated valedictorian in 1951. She went on to business school in Massena and after worked at Alcoa. While working in Massena she met her future husband Paul Mitras and was married by Reverend Harold Skelly on March 28th, 1953. Theymoved to camp Gordon Georgia, where Paul was stationed in the Army. Gibson was born there.
After Paul's tour, they moved back to Waddington, where they built their first home. Paul went toClarkson while Helen maintained their home. Son Kerry was born in Massena at this time. After Paul graduated, they sold their home and moved to Falls Church Virginia. Paul then got a job at
G.E. and they moved to Marcy, N.Y. Daughter Valerie was born at this time. The family thenmoved to Bowie, Maryland, for Paul’s work. The North Country called the family back in 1971 when they built their last home. Their daughter Valerie died in a tragic accident in 1972. Helen went to work for a customs broker while the boys finished school. Helen then helped run the family restaurant for 18 years and retired as a teacher’s aide, a job she dearly loved.
Helen’s interests were knitting, baking attending sporting events, concerts, plays, and taking the grandkids to Music theater north which they remember fondly. She also attended many American legion functions with Paul. Helen was a member of the United Methodist Church in Waddington, Post 420 auxiliary, eastern star, grange, and tops. Preceding Helen in death is her husband Paul, daughter Valerie, Brothers Donald Martin, and Gerald Henry, and sister Doris Mackey. A celebration of life and service will be held in the spring at the convenience of thefamily.
Arrangements are with The Phillips Memorial Home, 28 Clinton Street, Waddington, NY.
Family and friends are invited to share online condolences and memories at www.PhillipsMemorial.com
