Helen M. Hanley's Obituary
Helen M. Hanley, a loving matriarch and fiercely independent spirit, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2023, in Jefferson Hills, PA. Born on August 13, 1925, in Pittsburgh, PA.
In the early years of her life, Helen displayed an unwavering spirit of dedication and courage. During World War II, while her future husband, Edward H. Hanley, soared above Germany in B-24 Bombers with the Eighth Air Force, Helen assembled bomb sights for the same aircraft on the home front. Their shared commitment to the war effort symbolized the start of their journey together. Following the war, Helen and Edward married and settled in Pittsburgh, where they raised their four sons.
Helen's life was not without its share of heartache. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 47 years, Edward H. Hanley, her loving parents, Edward and Helen Och, her two sons, William Hanley and Edward Hanley, and her three siblings, Edward, Gilbert, and Dolores. Despite these losses, Helen's spirit remained unbroken. She found solace in the love and support of her surviving family members, her sons, Thomas (Gail) Hanley and James (Kathleen) Hanley, her grandchildren, Guy, Sarah, Chad, Kimberley, Kelly, Heather, Eric, and Ryan, and her adored great-grandchildren, Reese, Dane, Nixon, Luke, and Eve.
Helen's interests were grounded in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy and happiness. In her later years, Helen maintained her fiercely independent spirit. She lived life on her terms, displaying a resilience and strength that was truly remarkable.
Family and friends will be welcomed on Saturday, July 8th, 2023 from 12:00pm-4:00pm at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Inc., 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pleasant Hills, PA 15236. A Blessing Service will be held following final visitation in the funeral home chapel at 4:00pm. Condolences may be shared at www.jeffersonmemorial.com.
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