Helen Fenton

September 5th 1936-July 10th 2024
On July 10, 2024, Helen Alexandra Fenton (née Vourvoulias), aged 87, passed away surrounded by loved ones. Born on September 5, 1936, in Cali, Colombia, Helen was a cherished figure known for her loving nature, understated grace, and spirited sense of humor.
Helen is survived by her children George (Vicki), Jason, Jennifer (John) and Vanessa (Frank); grandson Graeme; sister-in-law Dolores; and her 'Chicago' cousins, nieces and nephews. Helen was predeceased by her parents Athena and Leander, brothers (and sisters-in-law) Jason (Joyce), Takis (Diana), and Alkis, as well as her ex-husband George and his sister Mary Lou Minier.
Helen's multi-faceted life started with diverse experiences growing up in Colombia, Mexico, and Chicago. She returned to Mexico City to care for her mother who became disabled in an accident, then attended Mexico City College where she met her husband, George Fenton. George's work with Pan Am took them from Mexico to the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and New York where each of their four children were born, respectively. The family eventually settled in South Jersey, first in West Berlin, then Haddonfield, Haddon Twp and finally with Vanessa and Frank in Haddon Heights.
Helen was committed to the service of others throughout her life. As a mom and teacher, she lovingly tended her children while teaching Title 1, 2nd and 5th Grades at the Berlin Township Schools. In the evenings, she earned a teaching degree from Glassboro State College. Over her 25 year career Helen received many awards and accolades for her lively and creative classrooms. After moving to Haddonfield, Helen took in her parents from Mexico City, and cared for them for the remainder of their lives.
In retirement, she dedicated her time to family, close friends, travel, and volunteerism – providing spanish translation and support for families through organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the Haddonfield United Methodist Church, ESL, as well as local immigrant and latin american communities.
Helen had a profound impact on those around her, radiating warmth and acceptance. Her presence was a gift of calm and joy. A scrabble enthusiast, she delighted in the simple pleasures of life, from the company of children, gardening, the arts, and her favorite foods. Her love for music filled her surroundings with harmony and laughter.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Helen can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Habitat for Humanity, organizations that reflect her spirit of generosity and community support. Helen's legacy of love and laughter will resonate with all who knew her, ensuring her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of many.
A celebration of Helen's life will be held by her family and friends on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at the Haddonfield Friends Meeting House – 47 Friends Ave, Haddonfield, New Jersey, 08033. Visitation will be from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm and the Service at 3:00pm followed by reception. Inurnment will be private at the request of the family.