Helen Budzian Whitfield

Helen Budzian Whitfield, a remarkable woman who bravely battled dementia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 25, at Sacred Heart Home in Hyattsville, Maryland. Her final days were filled with the love and support of her family, including her devoted husband of 71 years. Born on June 9, 1933 in Michigan City, Indiana, Helen was the daughter of Adolph and Rose Budzian. Her academic prowess shone through as she graduated cum laude from Northern Illinois University with a degree in Elementary Education. Her teaching career spanned eight years, during which she taught third grade in both Maryland and Indiana. Helen also worked in the accounting department at Sears Roebuck & Co. and the Travel Department at the University of Maryland.

Helen’s greatest joys and achievements were raising her two children, cherishing time with her grandchildren, and being a faithful and devoted wife. She had a special place in her heart for volunteering at her children’s school, especially when they were young. Her remarkable handwriting was renowned, and she faithfully spent many summer weekends as a ribbon writer for Hillandale Hellcats’ summer swim team. Even today, many former swimmers still reminisce about the beautiful handwriting on their ribbons.

Helen had a deep love for children and spent countless happy hours playing with her grandchildren. She and her husband were avid hikers and campers, exploring most of the United States and its numerous breathtaking National Parks, including the iconic Grand Canyon. Helen was a kind and gentle soul with a laugh that still lingers in our memories and hearts.

In addition to her parents, Helen was also predeceased by her sister, Virginia. Surviving Helen are her husband A.J. Whitfield, her son Alan Whitfield, her daughter Melanie Ness and Melanie’s husband, Stephen Ness. Her cherished grandchildren include Anthony Ness, Vincent Ness (Maggie), Stephanie Benjamin (Glenn), Sabrina Costa (Travis), and Aidan Whitfield. Additionally, there are nine great grandchildren: Eliana Hammel, Dominic Hammel, Stephen Benjamin, Maranatha Ness, Maximus Ness, Aletheia Ness, Xavier Ness, Lorelai Ness, and Joseph Ness.

Visitation with the family and a celebration of life will be held at Donald V. Borgwardt Funeral Home in Beltsville, Maryland, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, 2025. Her ashes will be interred privately at a later date at the Crownsville Veterans Cemetery. Those who wish to honor

Helen’s memory in a special way can make a donation to Sacred Heart Home, located at 5805 Queens Chapel Road, Hyattsville, Maryland 20782.