Obituary of Helen Armstrong

Helen Theresa Armstrong, 79, died peacefully on October 25, 2014 in Rose Garden Nursing Home, Toms River, NJ with her family by her side after enduring multiple chronic illnesses with grace and dignity. Helen was born September 14, 1935, in Seaside Park, NJ to Kristo and Elizabeth Kleva. She was baptized in St. Catharine of Siena Church where she remained a lifelong communicant with a strong faith. Upon graduating Toms River High School as salutatorian, Helen went to work for Clayton Sterling Realtors where she met her soon-to-be husband Phillip. They were married on November 19, 1960. Helen spent many years as a homemaker, a loving, devoted, and selfless wife and mother. After raising her family, Helen returned to work in the offices of B&B Department Stores. Helen loved spending time with her family who enjoyed her sense of humor. Although peaceful in nature, she was a pillar of strength for her family, and each of her 15 grandchildren held a special place in her heart. Helen was a kind and gentle person loved by all who knew her. Helen is survived by her husband Phillip; her children Mary Armstrong, Catharine Frank, Phillip and Jocelyn Armstrong, Robert and Michelle Armstrong, Francis and Dana Armstrong, Jeanette and Kenneth Turner, James and Heather Armstrong; her grandchildren Ben, Andrea, Robbie, Leah, PJ, Jonny, Kiley, Krista, Grace, Robert, Jerry, Christopher, Tommy, Keira, Eileen; her siblings Mary, Stephen, John, Joseph, and Anna. Helen was predeceased by her twin sons, and her parents. A memorial mass will be celebrated in St. Catharine of Siena Church at 50 E Street, Seaside Park, NJ 08752 on Thursday, October 30, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. after which the family will accept condolences. A private interment for the family will follow arranged by Manchester Memorial Funeral Home, Whiting. Memorial donations may be made to "St. Catharine Cares" at 50 E Street, Seaside Park, NJ 08752 helping those in need regardless of their religious affiliation.