Helen B. Gormley

Helen B. Gormley, 91, formerly of 128 James Street, Columbiana, Ohio, died on July 10, 2023, in Boulder, Colorado. Born July 20, 1931, the daughter of the late William and Mollie (Justison) Bott, she was raised on the family farm near Unity, Ohio. She was the third of ten siblings, attending school in New Waterford (class of ’49). She fondly remembered picking strawberries, stealing her older brother’s books then hiding behind the couch to read them, and playing the piano.

She married Donald Gormley of Columbiana, in 1951. They built a home in Columbiana where they lived for over 55 years. Landscaped beautifully, she had many flowers and roses and cursed the Japanese beetles. She enjoyed holding social gatherings and hosting the annual family Christmas party. For many years, they were part of the Columbiana “poolies” bobbing around Firestone pool. They were lifelong members of the Columbiana First United Methodist Church.

After her two sons were old enough, Helen worked for the Village of Columbiana and then as a legal assistant. She also participated in numerous community organizations, including the Columbiana Women’s Club, the Historical Society, bridge club, garden club and Eastern Star as well as serving as an election judge for many years. She enjoyed games, including crossword puzzles, mahjong, and Scrabble, and was an avid card shark, playing bridge twice a week and occasionally “13” and poker.

She is survived by son Dave (wife Randi) of Fairfield, CT, and grandchildren Nathaniel of Fairfield, CT, Mollie of Biddeford, ME, and Emma Faulkner (husband James) of Hopkinton, NH, and great-granddaughter Elizabeth Rose Faulkner, and son Tom (wife Sandy) of Lafayette, CO, and granddaughter Reyanne Guerrero (husband Eric) of Erie, CO, and great-grandchildren Aidan and Madison. Survivors also include a brother-in-law, three sisters-in-law, and a host of loving nieces and nephews.

A Life Celebration service will be held September 9 at 11:30am at Firestone Park Pavilion, 1 West in Columbiana, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Columbiana Historical Society.

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