Arlene Laurent Helmus

Arlene Helmus, age 89, of Parker, Colorado, passed away peacefully on November 17th, 2025 in St. Cloud, Florida. Arlene was known for her incredible sense of humor, strong love for her family, and gentle kindness to all who had the good fortune to know her.

Arlene was born on May 18th, 1936 in Rahway, New Jersey where she was raised in a loving family with lots of cousins and extended family nearby. In 1958, she graduated from The College of William and Mary with a degree in English. She was a devoted educator throughout her career, starting out as a high school teacher and continuing to work in various roles in education administration for colleges, pre-schools, and adult education programs.

Arlene also had a love for creativity and again helped to educate people on the hobby she was passionate about. She wrote and published a book on crafting, as well as appearing as a regular "craft contributor" on several TV morning programs in the San Francisco Bay Area throughout the 1980s, and even sold her crafts through retail outlets including Macy's and many local boutiques. Although she enjoyed all creative pursuits, she had a special love of creating her cherished Christmas ornaments and hand painted thousands of ornaments over the years.

Anyone who knew Arlene knew that she was also an animal lover who owned numerous dogs and cats throughout her life. She loved all animals and her pets were always a cherished part of her family.

Arlene will be remembered for her ability to make friends and connections with everyone she met. No matter where she lived, she brought people together, resulting in a life full of friends, travel, gatherings, and laughter. However, her love for her family was absolutely the most important thing to her and she was first and foremost a proud mother and grandmother.

Arlene was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth LaBar Laurent and Thomas Clifford Laurent, and sister Joan Ruth Windsor. She is survived by her daughters Kristen Schurr (Allan), Dana McComb (Mark), and granddaughters Haylie McComb, Quincy Schurr, Ashlyne McComb, and Logan Schurr.

A private memorial will be held by the family. Expressions of sympathy can be made through a donation to any animal welfare organization in her honor.