Helen Hauser Wisdom

Helen Hauser Wisdom died Friday, December 8, at Lambeth House in New Orleans. She was the daughter of the late William and Josephine Hauser. She was a descendant of Dr. William Hauser of Jefferson County, Georgia, author and composer. He published "The Hesperian Harp," one of the largest collections of shape-note hymns of the 19th century. Helen is survived by her brother, John Gary Hauser of New Orleans, and by her sons, Arthur George Mitteer Wisdom, Andrew Bell Wisdom and wife Maria; and her son Matthew Morgan Wisdom, and her grandchildren, John Minor Wisdom, II; Helen Elizabeth Wisdom and Thomas Andrew Wisdom; Sophia Bell Wisdom, Greyson Alexander Wisdom, Lacey Odessa Wisdom; Pierce Mitteer Wisdom, Leila Esther Wisdom, and Jaqueline Bell Wisdom. Helen graduated from the Louise S. McGehee School and from Newcomb College, where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority. Her first husband, Arthur Mitteer of New Orleans, died while serving in the U.S. Naval Reserve as a naval aviator. She married William Bell Wisdom, Jr. of New Orleans, and he adopted her son, Arthur, and they became parents of Andrew and Matthew Wisdom. Helen was a gifted teacher and was a much-loved faculty member of the Metairie Park Country Day School. She took pleasure in her long-lived book club and was an active member and one-time president of the Quarante Club, a local literary group. Helen was also a gifted photographer, bringing her camera and her talent on safari, and then also contributing photographs to a cookbook, "The Best of Gourmet 1997: Featuring the Flavors of Greece." Her photographs are displayed throughout Lambeth House. A longtime member of the New Orleans Town Gardeners, Helen was especially proud of her efforts enhancing her beloved summer cottages in Maine. A skilled decorator, Helen will also be remembered for her tasteful, comfortable homes. And, best of all, she had an infectious laugh! Happily, Helen did have several enjoyable years at Lambeth House with her fond companion, the late Dr. Jack Zoller. Services will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Avenue, on Monday, December 18, with visitation at 10:00 am and services at 11:00 am, followed by private burial in Metairie Cemetery. Donations to the New Orleans Town Gardeners and Trinity Episcopal Church are suggested in lieu of flowers. To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.