Helene Beach

Helene Beach (née Pohorily) passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, at Neshaminy Manor in Warrington, Pennsylvania. She was 86.
Born in what is now Minsk, Belarus, Helene endured the hardships of a Displaced Persons camp following World War II before immigrating to the United States in 1952 at age 14. She quickly adapted to her new country, learned English, and helped raise her younger siblings, developing the resilience that would define her life.
Helene, fiercely determined and brave, raised her four children largely on her own after her first marriage ended, often with limited resources but unlimited resolve. "One must do what one must do," she would often say. Her brief marriage to her second husband, Tony LaBranche, grew into a lasting friendship. Later in life, she found companionship with Donald Beach, a decorated U.S. Army veteran who served in the Korean War, until his passing in 1999
.
Helene's mind was as remarkable as her spirit. She spoke five languages, remained deeply curious about the world, and though naturally introverted, never hesitated to speak her mind. Her frank observations reflected the strength of her convictions.
A gifted cook who worked in the food service industry for decades, Helene could recreate complex dishes after a single taste. Her dinners and Christmas parties became treasured gatherings, with homemade pierogi and borscht connecting generations to their heritage.
She found joy in her garden, kept her Lincoln Continentals meticulously polished, and maintained an impeccable appearance, carrying herself with dignity, pride, and a twinkle of flirtatious charm that made her unforgettable. She loved music, was an avid reader, and generously supported veterans' causes, honoring the service of her late husband and all who
served.
Helene will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, beside her husband, Donald Beach. Arlington is a hallowed resting place for over 400,000 veterans and their families and a testament to the enduring legacy of American service.
She is predeceased by her daughter, Kitty Freund, and son Lenny Warenyk. She is survived by her daughters, Lucy Vogel and Angel Quinn; stepdaughter, Pati Beach; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Irene Murphy; and several nieces and nephews. They will continue to uphold her legacy of resilience and pragmatic grace.
In keeping with her wishes, a private family service will be held. In place of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Autism Speaks. https://www.autismspeaks.org/
To honor Helene's indomitable spirit, her family dedicates Maya Angelou's poem, Phenomenal Woman, which captures the inner strength, fire, and mystery that defined Helene's life. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/48985/phenomenal-woman