Helen Martell

7/13/1934 - 8/20/2025

Norwich - Helen Kathleen (White) Martell, 91, of Norwich, passed away peacefully Aug. 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. After a life filled with kindness, laughter, and devotion, she was joyfully reunited with her beloved husband and lifelong dance partner, Bill "Ken" Martell, with whom she shared 63 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2018.

Born at home in Mine Number 30, Windber, Pa., July 13, 1934, Helen was the cherished middle sister of five. A proud graduate of Windber High School, she played the saxophone in the marching band and found her forever partner in her high school sweetheart, Bill. They were married Oct. 7, 1955, at Holy Child Catholic Church and built a life rooted in hard work, love, and family.

Helen's professional journey was as impressive as it was inspiring. Out of High School, she began her career as a telephone operator in Windber, Pa., before devoting her early years to raising her children to school-age. Then she joined Southern New England Telephone Company, where she advanced from Information Operator #99 to Operator Services Chief in Bristol. She embraced new opportunities in the emerging field of data systems, completing two years of programming training and ultimately retiring as a Computer Analyst Supervisor. She was known not only for her intelligence and innovative strategies but also for her warmth, humor, and the way she uplifted and encouraged everyone on her team.

Outside of her career, Helen's greatest joy was her family. Helen delighted in planning annual family reunions in Pennsylvania, hosting neighborhood picnics, and creating treasured memories of delicious family recipes. Her home was always filled with laughter, love, and the comfort of her generous spirit. She and Bill were fortunate to retire early, spending nearly 30 years travelling to visit their children and enjoying time together between Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Florida.

Helen is survived by her five children, Mary Katherine Martell Whitworth, Teresa Ann Martell Majeski, William John Martell, and Gregory Edward Martell, all of Norwich, CT, and Christina Martell of Honolulu, Hawaii. She also leaves behind ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, all of whom were the pride and joy of her life.

She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose love and encouragement touched everyone she met. Helen's life was an extraordinary example of hard work and determination. From coal miner's daughter to senior executive of a Fortune 500 company, Helen's accomplishments were an inspiration and always reminded her family to follow their dreams. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her fun-loving spirit will live on in the hearts of those she loved. And whenever a red bird graces our path, we will feel her gentle reminder that she is still watching over us with love.

A traditional Irish wake will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, at Strange Brew Pub, 86 Water St., Norwich. A calling hour for Helen will be held from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at Church & Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St., Norwich. A service will follow at 12:15 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at 1 p.m. at Maplewood Cemetery, 184 Salem Tpke., Norwich. Family and friends are invited to a reception celebrating Helen's life from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Bella Fiore Restaurante, 543 W Thames St., Norwich.