Helen Marie Breeding

After 79 extraordinary years filled with love, laughter, and faith, Helen Marie Breeding passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, surrounded by her family and friends.

Helen was born on January 16, 1946, in Oakland, California, and from the very beginning, she had a heart for others. She graduated from Harry Ells High School in 1963 and spent her life caring for people in countless ways-working at the Lion's Center for the Visually Impaired, supporting students as a special education aide at Belshaw Elementary, volunteering in hospitals, and even studying nursing at Los Medanos College.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. As a lifelong member of the Church of Christ, she lived each day with love and generosity, always making others feel welcome. She never met a stranger, and her home was always a place of warmth and laughter. More than anything, Helen loved being with her family. Her husband described her best: "Devoted to her family beyond measure."

At just 12 years old, she met the love of her life, David Breeding. On December 11, 1965, the two were married, beginning what would become nearly 60 years of unwavering devotion, partnership, and love-a love story that inspired everyone who witnessed it. Together they raised two children, Sharon and Danny, and built a family that became her greatest joy.

Helen is survived by her husband, David; her daughter, Sharon Higbee; her sister, Sharon Collett (Steve); her brother, Allen Key (Alisa); and her grandchildren, Jonathan, Sydney, Isaac, and Maisie. She was welcomed into heaven by her parents, Ellen Fern Key and Johnie Key; her son, Danny Breeding; and her sister, Renee Campbell.

Those who knew Helen will remember her as a woman of joy, faith, and kindness-a person who gave selflessly and loved deeply. Her legacy lives on not only through her family, but through the countless lives she touched with her compassion and joy.

A service to celebrate Helen's life will be held on Monday, August 25 at 5:30pm at the Antioch Church of Christ, 616 W. Tregallas Road. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Antioch Church of Christ, carrying forward her spirit of service and faith.