Mary Helen Travers

Travers, Mary Helen

Mary Helen Travers, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2025 leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Mary Helen was the daughter of William and Helen (Strieker) Nielsen. After William's passing, Helen remarried Joe Barnett, becoming Helen Barnett. Mary Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald T. Travers, as well as her parents and her dear siblings, Dennis and Mary Ann Nielsen. She is survived by her loving children: John Travers, Brian and Kara (Glessner) Travers, Kevin and Keely (Brierton) Travers, Megan (Travers) and John Bertagnolli. Her greatest joy was her family, and she cherished being "Gram" to her 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Mary Helen is also survived by her brother Thomas and Ceclia Barnett, as well as her sisters Mickie (and the late David) Northcutt and Kathleen and Mike Piel. She leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and countless friends who were touched by her warmth and generosity.

A lifelong Catholic, Mary Helen's faith was the foundation of her life. She had a heart full of love and taught those around her the importance of kindness. She was a woman of beauty and grace, always carrying herself with elegance.

Mary Helen's presence brought joy to all who knew her. Her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

A funeral mass will be held at Ascension Catholic Church in Chesterfield at 9:45am on Friday, March 14. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Mary Helen's name to the Creighton University Alumni and Friends (Alumni.creighton.edu).