Search by Name

Search by Name

James Helou Obituary

Helou, James J. Jr ALBANY James J. Helou Jr., 71, passed away suddenly at home on Friday, November 9, 2007. James was born on February 10, 1936 in Albany and was the son of the late James J. and Mary Rose (Mon-brady) Helou Sr. James worked as an operations manager for Millwork Specialties in Albany for over 25 years before retiring in 1998; prior to that, he worked for Concord Lumber in Albany. He was devoted to his family, friends and church and was a very giving person to all who knew him. James is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Rose M. (Yanni) Helou; his children, Mary A. Helou, James J. Helou III and Jacqueline R. Helou; his sisters, Phyllys Hodge and Rosemary Vanderwarker; his beloved grandchildren, Brielle A. Helou, Alexandra "Lexi" Helou and Jessica L. Helou-Topini; and several nieces and nephews. Among his many dear friends were Edward and Angie Kosakowski and Ray Oliver. He was predeceased by his sisters, Anna Vander-warker and Jacqueline Manzella. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. at New Comer-Cannon Family Funeral, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie (Rt. 155-south of Central Ave.) then to Holy Cross Church, Albany where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Glenmont. Calling hours will be held on Monday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 440 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205 in memory of James J. Helou Jr. To leave a special message for the family online, visit: www.NewcomerFamily.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Albany Times Union from Nov. 11 to Nov. 12, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for James Helou

Not sure what to say?





Chrishan Trojian

January 28, 2008

Dear Helou Family,
I want to extend my deepest sympathies upon learning of the loss of a dear husband, father, grandfather and brother. Mr. Helou will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Gary Jenkins

December 16, 2007

To the Helou family, I send my deepest condolences. I just heard about the news from my mother while I was attending my dads funeral. Like the Gavigan's and Thomas's, I grew up on Terrace Ave. While I didn't know Jim because I was young, there's certain neighbors you knew or thought of as mean and others you remember as nice. Jim was one of the nice ones. While his size was imposing to me, he always seemed to smile. Say HI to my dad if you see him. Rest easy Mr Helou. You were one of the "good guys"

Jackie Helou

December 2, 2007

Dad-
I think of you everyday, the memories, and the laughter. I Miss picking up the phone to tell you how my day was, I know just how proud you were and I know that everything that happened was in god's plan. I miss that look on your face when you'd see me... I'm carrying all of the memories with me...I just want you to know I'm ok and that you were truly the best father to me and I feel so lucky to have had that with you. Thanks for always understanding me and having a smile for me even when you were in pain that week you still tried. I couldn't have asked for a better father. I miss you especcially during this season that you loved so much.

Kelly

November 22, 2007

My hope is that you are able to think of you Husband, Father and Pop with some peace in your heart today. That one moment will bring you some relief. Happy Thanksgiving

A friend

November 18, 2007

Mary,
Your Father was a wonderful man. I know that this time is so difficult for you and your family but try to remember the wonderufl times you were able to spend with him and hold them close to your heart, that is what will carry you through! The sun will shine again and when it does, one of those rays will be your Dad!

We are so very sorry,your Dad is with you always,Chris,Joe,Collin&Christian Raimo

November 14, 2007

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007

Jim Flood

November 13, 2007

To the entire Helou family,Although I have not seen Jim since his retirement I have alot of fond memories when he worked for Millwork Specialties.We use to do alot of business with them and Jim always took good care of our needs and was always on top of his game.I could never just stop in to pick up an order without talking to big Jim.He ALWAYS talked about his wife and kids and how much he adored them and also liked talking NFL football.We affectionately always called him (meatballs).Jim was a class act and always fun to be around.Lord bless his soul and give his family the strength to carry on.Jim Flood(Pres.Atlantic States Kitchens)

AUDREY TARULLO

November 13, 2007

UNCLE JIM, OUR HEARTS HURT SO MUCH WITHOUT YOU, WE DO KNOW YOU ARE IN A BETTER PLACE.SAY HELLO TO NONA, MY MOM, AND OUR DAD.WATCH OVER ALL OF US. YOU ARE LOVED SO MUCH WE WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH NIECE AUDREY, & FAMILY

The Jackson Family

November 13, 2007

To Aunt Rose and family
We will miss uncle jimmy alot but he is looking over all of us right now. We will miss you . Hugs and kisses Rest in Peace.

Kelly Parker

November 13, 2007

To the Helou Family,
Today is the day you laid your Husband, Father and PopPop to rest. It is a day of great sorrow for you and to tell you not to be sad would be foolish, how could you not be...Yet, today is also a great day for celebrating, as well. Today is his home-coming; the day he was officially welcomed into the after-life to take his place as an angel. It is the day that he is finally reunited with lost loved ones who were right there waiting to greet him. It is a day that he worked his whole life for, the day he found eternal peace.
Today is a day for remembrance. He left you all with so many special & wonderful moments and memories and although he is no longer here in body, his spirit will forever walk with you! Every once in a while, when Jim is not in that moments thought, something will happen to make you think of him...that will be your kiss and hug to let you know that he will always be with you, your own very special Guardian Angel!
One day it will be your turn to be welcomed into the after life and he will be there waiting for you! In the meantime, give yourself as much time as you need to cry, hurt, be angry and time to accept and you will begin to heal. One day you will be able to think of him without tears, perhaps even with laughter!
Your Husband, Father's & PopPop's legacy will live on forever in each of you!
Once again, if you need anything, even just an ear to talk too, please do not hesitiate to call on me!

BARBARA SPIAK-KELLY

November 13, 2007

DEAR MRS HELOU AND FAMILY -
I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSS. I WORKED WITH JIM AT MARVIN MILLWORK A LONG TIME AGO. HE WAS A GREAT GUY. HE WOULD TALK ABOUT HIS CHILDREN WITH SUCH GREAT PRIDE. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH ALL OF YOU.

Nancy and George Catalano

November 13, 2007

Rose and Family,
Please accept my sincerest sympathy on the passing of your husband Jim. He was a wonderful man. I will be praying for all of you in your time of grief.
God Bless You

john stamas

November 12, 2007

mary. very sorry for your loss..

Kelly Parker

November 12, 2007

Mary & Family,
I cannot begin to tell you how truely sorry I am for your loss. Over the weekend I thought of what I could say to make you feel better but words are just words. I met your Dad and I thought he was just so great, I enjoyed laughing with him about that animal in the yard and I am now truely honored that I was given the opportunity (although so brief) to meet him.
If there is anything that I can do, please do not hesitate to call me! In the meantime, you are all in my thoughts and prayers!
Love

Rita Thompson

November 12, 2007

Rose, Mary, Jimmy & Jackie,
What a wonderful man you had in Jimmy. His quick smile made all feel so very comfortable, He took such good care of our mom when my dad passed. I am sure Jimmy is in heaven smiling down on you - he loved you all so much. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Rita Thompson (Mary LaPlante's daughter)

Brielle Lassiter - Helou

November 12, 2007

Grandpa,
I love you and will always miss you, especially the time I use to stay over and in the morning you'd make me breakfast. You always were the perfect cook. Now that you're gone, I dont know what I'll do. The entire family will miss you and your smiles. You will forever be in my heart and the hearts of those you have touched, friends and family. May my life be half as blessed as yours. I love you.
Love always,
Your granddaughter,
Brielle

Jean Dillon

November 12, 2007

"Death leaves a heartache no one can
heal,Love leaves a memory no one can
steal"
Mary,Lexi & family, we are so so sorry for your loss,you will be in our prayers.

Renae Burnham

November 12, 2007

Mary and Family

I'm sorry for your loss. I know how much your dad meant to you. That's usually always the first thing we ask one another when speaking on the phone "How's your mom and dad". I remember your dad always being so kind to me and welcoming whenver I came to your home. You're all in my thoughts and prayers.

Jim Mc Mahon

November 12, 2007

Sorry for your loss. Ellie and I are on Cape Cod so we can't come to the wake.I always enjoyed Jim when he came in the office.He was a true gentleman. It was always a pleasure to know him through Holy Cross and Little League.My condolences to the entire family. Jim

Phoebe Palluto

November 12, 2007

Dear Mrs. Helou, Mary, James, Jackie & Family,

I am deeply saddened by the loss of your husband, and father. I have not known Mr. Helou much, I only heard James telling me he was such a perfect father. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy of your loss. He will be in my prayers and I hope and pray that God will comfort your hearts in His perfect time.

Larry Ragone

November 12, 2007

Dear Helou Family, I worked with "Jimmy" at Millwork Specialties in the 80's. He was a good man. I am very sorry for your loss.

Sincerely,

November 11, 2007

Dear Jim & Family,
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your father. It was enriching to have known him - He was dedicated to his beliefs and family. He also told good stories.
Deepest Condolances
Jeremy

John Armenia

November 11, 2007

Mr. Helou, I last saw you on November 25, 2006 when I came home to visit. We sat in your backyard, sipped on some red wine, and laughed about the old days. You told me how thankful you were for each and every day with your family. You couldn't stop talking about your grandchildren. You had a grace about you that always put a smile on my face. After a short while we hugged and said our goodbye's. You were so good to me and I am so proud to have known you. You will forever be in my heart. I love you and will miss you.

STU KAUFMAN

November 11, 2007

VERY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT JIM. DID NOT KNOW JIM WELL , BUT I SPENT MAY HOURS TALKING TO HIS BRIDE ROSEMARY.
MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS GO OUT TO THE HELOU FAMILY.

Robin O'Connell

November 11, 2007

Jim, we will miss you more than you can know. Talks in the parking lot at Holy Cross waiting to pick up Lexi and Melissa. Your waves across the street every time you pulled the car in the driveway. You are the best!! Keep watch over your family to keep them strong. Love and miss you already. Robin, Mike, Sean and Melissa O'Connell

Cara Waterson

November 11, 2007

Lexi,
I am sorry for your loss. I know that we will all miss him a lot, but just remember all the time you spent with him. You are such a great friend and i hope that when time goes by things will get better.

Edward and Susanne Legere

November 11, 2007

Dear Rose and Family,
We are so sad to hear about your loss. Although we are so far away, our arms are stretching out to all of you with a big hug. Please accept our condolences and we hope the sadness in your hearts will pass quickly and in it's place be filled with uplifting and precious memories.
With love, Edward and Susanne Legere

Madeline Seel

November 11, 2007

To Rose,Mary and the Entire Family,
I'm sadden to hear the Lost of
your Husband & Father. You have
My Deepest Sympathy.
Madeline (Mattie) Seel
Retired City Employee
(2006)

Jim Helou

November 11, 2007

Dad, you know how you have impacted my life and I am forever grateful and honored that you were my father, I will miss our Superbowl Sunday's together, I will miss our guy talks, and I will always remember how you treated those around you and all of the people you have impacted in such a positive way. I love you Dad, you will always be close to me.

Mariana Palella

November 11, 2007

Lexi
your grandpa was such a great guy and you are such a great friend. i am so sorry. i hope you will think of all the great time you spent with him.

bill hodge jr

November 11, 2007

Uncle Jim I will miss you dearly. You have ment so much to me in my life,always looking out for me like a big brother. I love you and will miss our daily talks.

love nephew billy

John and Melissa DiBlasi

November 11, 2007

Mary,
We are so sorry that you lost your Dad and we hope you're able to find peace in your heart knowing he is in a better place.

Jackie Helou

November 11, 2007

Dad
You touched so many lives around you. I'm finally going to meet Ray and I want you to know that I will do whatever I can for him, I know how much he meant to you and I want you to know that we are all looking out for Mom. I'm going to miss our talks and laughing with you over the silliest of things. I miss you and can't imagine life without you. You will be in my heart forever. Please watch over us. Love Always,
Jackie

kalene brown

November 11, 2007

uncle jimmy, i cant still believe your gone.you were someone who you could talk to when u needed someone,someone to make u laugh,someone to just listen.you were someone who everyone loved & now life is gonna be so different without you.just the thought of you not being here hurts me to the deepest.still not wanting to believe your gone,but remembering all the memories we had & nobody can ever take them away.i know your in heaven & that makes me feel better.you were litterly the father figure ive always wanted but never had.you were always there in person & i know your here with everyone in spirt.rest in peace<3

marilyn brown

November 11, 2007

Uncle Jim, we will miss you more than you will ever know. Say hello and kiss Nona,Grandpa,My Mom, and Aunt Jackie.We will meet again.
love you ,
niece Marilyn & Family.

Lexi and Jess

November 11, 2007

Papa, I love you so much and i miss you too. My heart is aching to see you again I will miss doing fun things with you but i know that you will help us all get stronger everyday. I love you and miss you !

Mary

November 11, 2007

Dad,
Words cannot express how much I will miss you. A piece of my heart is gone forever with you. I will love you always and I know you will be watching over me and my girls.

CRISORIO,GAVIGAN AND THOMAS FAMILY

November 11, 2007

MRS. HELOU,MARY,JACKIE AND JIMMY,
I CANT SAY ENOUGH ABOUT MR. HELOU,GROWING UP ON TERRACE AVE ACROSS THE STREET FROM HIM WAS GREAT, HE WAS SUCH A DEDICATED HUSBAND AND FATHER. HE ALWAYS WAS SMILING AND ALWAYS WELCOMED US IN, THE DAYS OF JACKIE AND I PLAYING, MARY AND MARY T ALWAYS TOGATHER, SCOTTY AND JIMMY JO HANGING OUT, WE CANT FORGET STAR THE DOG, AND MRS. HELOU AND MRS LAPLANT TALKING TO EACH OTHER FROM ACROSS THE STREET AND ALWAYS MR. HELOU IN THE KITCHEN MAKING HIS SAUCE,CLASSIC.. AND GREAT MEMORYS.I JUST HOPE IT IS GREAT MEMORYS THAT CARRY THE FAMILY THROUGH,HE IS A FANTASTIC GUY AND THEY JUST DONT COME LIKE HIM ANYMORE,OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY,HE IS NOW YOUR GUARDIAN ANGEL.

Lexi Helou

November 11, 2007

Papa, I'll always miss you. You'll be in my heart forever and ever. We will all miss you so much but, we will remember all the good times and I know you will help us get stronger everday. I love you with all my heart.

Mickey & Kenny Siron

November 11, 2007

Our hearts are so heavy with the loss of Our Dear Uncle...Growing up no one could ask for a more loving and caring Uncle... As an adult, no one cared more how you were doing then him... He loved us all heart and soul... He will clearly be missed by all who knew and loved him...The Loss is clearly ours... We will miss you our Dear sweet Uncle...Loving Niece Mickey & Nephew Kenny

Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results

Make a Donation
in James Helou's name

Memorial Events
for James Helou

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor James Helou's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more