Helen Marie Van Ness

Helen Marie Van Ness, 95 years, passed away peacefully January 1, 2026, at home in Mobile, Alabama. She was a beloved wife (H. Wayne VanNess, 2019) mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend.

Helen was born November 18, 1930, in Monroe, Michigan, to Daniel and Helen (Socivar) Stoyanovich. Throughout her life, she lived in various places on the East Coast: Connecticut, Maryland, Florida, and South Carolina. She also spent four incredible years living in Hong Kong in the 1970s.

Helen was an avid reader, creator of beautiful needlework, and a masterful cook, always ready for a culinary adventure. She and Wayne were active members and enjoyed the fellowship of the Presbyterian Church. She was an amazing hostess, who treasured time with family and cherished friends of all ages. She loved to travel and embarked on many wonderful journeys with her husband and family.

Helen was one-of-a-kind; a nurturing and giving person whose ready smile and warm spirit touched all who knew her.

She is survived by her children: Julie McDaniel (Ron Kiene, 2019), Karen (Paul) Irvine, Rick (Jennifer Howell) Van Ness, Tom (Linda) Van Ness; sibling Terry Kneece; 14 nieces and nephews, plus 10 "above average" grandchildren, and sixteen "exceptional" great grandchildren. We will miss her.

A private service will be held for her family at a later date.