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Helen Kelley Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Helen Kelley
Sponsored by The Family of Helen Kelley.
Paulette J Bergman
August 28, 2022
I think of Helen & Bill often, knowing that they are together again. Helen was a dear friend and I had been to their home numerous times, bring dessert, of course. I miss them... pj stitches!
Liz Dolgner
October 10, 2020
My hubby and I were just talking about when we last saw Helen at Quilts Hall of Fame 2008. Miss her so much. Miss her books and QN Loose Threads. I remember the story about how she saw her quilt on the frame as she walked past to go get dressed after breakfast. She thought she would sit down for just a moment and do a few stitches. The next she knew it was almost noon and she needed to get lunch on the table. She quickly took out a leftover put it in the microwave and hurriedly got dressed. She had time to set table as her dear hubby came in the door. He never knew she had not been working on lunch all morning. I also have done the very same thing. Bet a whole lot of other quilters have also. But her story did remove a lot of guilt that most of probably carry.
Paulette J (pj) Bergman
August 28, 2020
Helen & Bill Kelley -- together. I think of them often & my visits to their house. I still have "Loose Threads" articles roaming around the house where I run into them every once in a while; it helps. I will always miss them. Dear people! As ever, in stitches, pjstitches! now in sw Missouri; I traded my MN for an MO. pj!
January 14, 2020
I opened yet another QN to a page I had marked and there was another Dark Blue Quilt and it's the middle of winter again. I remembered her joking in an article about how she seemed to always be working on one in the winter.
May your lives be brightened by the memories of her laughter.
Shelia Gale
Western South Dakota
Paulette (pj) Bergman
August 28, 2019
Thinking of you, Bill. Helen will always be in our hearts. I think of her often... pj
Paulette (pj) Bergman
December 1, 2018
I will always miss you, Helem. You were such a wonderful friend. Thank you for being you and sharing so very much of yourself with the world!! pj (still more tears...)
Debbie Jones
November 30, 2018
I just wanted to express my condolences to the family of Helen Kelley. I have just found out about her passing. I have been reading 20 years worth of Quilters Newsletter Magazines and have loved her articles. She has taught me alot about quilting and about life. Just know that even though she is gone all these many years she is still teaching.
Jackie Loos
May 14, 2018
I have just finished Helen Kelley's book, Every Quilt Tells a Story. What a treasure she was and what a beautiful, positive outlook on life she had. I found pictures of her quilts online, truly amazing. My own mother passed away in 2001 so I know the loss never goes away, but I hope there is joy in knowing that Helen's words and laughter found in her writing, continue to influence quilters who never met her. I feel like I have known her and she will definitely be in my mind as I make my own (simple) quilts and remember her words to just do.
Carol Westover
June 12, 2017
I've just discovered you, and now I find you're no longer here with us. May your new life bring you joy as you've brought joy and encouragement to others. Keep stitching...
Kathy Hanson
August 5, 2013
I miss dear Helen so often as I quilt in my sewing room. Her picture is there with her words of wisdom. She stayed with me for the last Minnesota Quilt Show that she attended in Rochester and we went to the dinner together. The picture that I look at was at that occasion. I miss her and her wonderful words of wisdom, her kindness and her sense of humor. Rest in peace dear, dear Helen - you are missed!
Angela Meister
August 4, 2013
I was recently given a large stack of quilting magazines, including The Quilters Newsletter - most issues between 1973 and 2003. I intended to quickly browse them before passing them on to more serious quilters - but I had to pause at each one to read Helen Kelley's column. Her sense of humor, her wisdom reached out to me. I wanted to tell her how much her columns meant to me and was devastated to learn of her death. Her words will live on. Thank you, Helen, for that.
Karen Alexander
September 16, 2010
It's been two years as of September 1st 2010 since Helen moved on to her next great adventure. She has been missed. Recently another great quilt legend and a fellow Honoree in The Quilters Hall of Fame has joined Helen as of September 4th. Bonnie Leman who gave Helen the opportunity to share her wonderful sense of humor and legendary writing with all of us in her column "Loose Threads". That makes five TQHF Honorees who have passed on in the past three year, including Shiela Betterton, Helen's dear friend from Bath, England; Mary Schafer of Michigan and Cuesta Benberry of St. Louis. All left their indelible mark on the late 20th century quilt revival. What gifts they all left us! Thank you again Kelley family for sharing Helen with us for so long!
Helen's sweet handi-work to a favorite fan
Shannon Nay
September 4, 2010
Helen's thank you to me for thanking her. What a thoughtful woman she was!
Shannon Nay
September 4, 2010
Shannon Nay
September 4, 2010
Dear Kelley Family,
I still grieve the loss of this most memorable woman. I also still laugh when I read her stories. And, my heart still remembers her kindness, as she took time from her busy schedule to write me a thank you note for sending her a willow tree quilt figurine. I wanted to send this as a symbol of thanks to her for always lifting my confidence and uplifting my spirits. I did not grow up with anyone in my family teaching me the love of quilting. Through her writings, Helen, in essence, was my mentor.
Also, I will forever cherish the block she made and sent to me and I am sure she will look down from heaven to cheer me on as I incorporate it into a quilt honoring her.
She was generous with her time and love for others. She made it evident that the threads of love hold hearts together.
Helen will always be remembered and live in my heart. I will always think of her when I see the birch trees too.
Thank you for always being such an incredible and supportive family to her and for honoring her memory while celebrating her life.
Wishing you peace and fond memories.
Sincerely,
Shannon Nay
Vicky Fueyo
August 9, 2010
Dear Kelley Family,
It is so touching that you are letting people express their thoughts and feelings about your mother in pen.
Her thoughts and feelings made me laugh, kept me focused on living with a joy-full attitude. I read through all the old QNMs all the time, and her article is the part I savor the most.
I would have loved to quilted and had a cup of coffee with this remarkable woman.
I am truly sorry for your loss and the loss her absence leaves on the worlds of many.
Sincerely,
Vicky Fueyo
You were always so kind and welcoming
Jaime Martinez
October 17, 2009
Jeannie Cottage
August 1, 2009
Dear Kelley Family
Some time ago I read your Guest Book after reading of Helen's death and was inspired to get our all my old QNMs and reread her wonderful words. She has made me laugh, smile and cry, and inspired me to achieve new heights in my own work. When I put the last magazine down I lay on my bed and sobbed - for all of us, for all our losses and griefs. But I know that Helen would have said - I never met or had any contact with her - that sorrow is a part of life and it makes us appreciate the good times in our lives.
She was a wonderful person and I, for one, will not forget her. I am sorry for your loss.
Liz Dolgner
July 31, 2009
It is just a little over a year ago that Helen was inducted into the Quilters Hall of Fame. While attending the Quilters Hall of Fame this year it bought wonderful memories of Helen being there last year. To see her stand there with humility as they put the medal around her neck showed her true self. She did not think of herself as a fantastic quilter, loving mom, dear spouse, and giving person to each of us. I miss her as a friend, and quilt expert. The fantastic personal attention she gave to questions, and her answers of wisdom are sorely missed. Love and will always remember you, Helen.
sandra kinsey
July 29, 2009
Helen remains a living part of my quilting world through her books and articles that I have lovingly saved over the years. I treasure a hard copy of an email she sent me years ago. What a delightful inspiration!
Suzette Shoulders
April 17, 2009
I heard about Helen's death from another quilter, and was so sad to know she is gone! Gone but NOT forgotten! I loved Helen's column for years and years! I became a quilter in 1975, and read her column from the early 80's until I quit getting QNM last year....sorry I didn't find out until recently that she had died. I felt like she was my friend, and sometimes I felt like she said just what I thought about a project or life. I bought her book "Joy of Quilting" about four months ago, and after enjoying every page and every word, bought four more copies to give as gifts to my most special quilting friends. I send my hugs to all of you in her family. What a wonderful person she was, her great soul and personality shone through in each column she wrote. Thanks to Helen for all the wonderful quilting memories! Suzette Shoulders, Oregon
April 7, 2009
Dear Kelley Family,
From the first time I read Loose Threads in Quilter's Newsletter it was my favorite. Helen Kelley wrote with kindness, wisdom, and caring. She is missed by so many of us who never knew her except for her writings. I am sorry for your loss.
Monica
April 3, 2009
Sometimes when I got my brand new unopened copy of Quilter's Newsletter I would turn immediately to Loose Threads, but sometimes I would delay, and flick through the magazine savouring the moment when I would read Helen's (if I may) page. I never had the pleasure of meeting her, never exchanged a phone call or letter with her, but somehow I felt I knew her, and admired her - oh how I admired her! I must be one of thousands who wish they had met her. I cried when I heard of her death. My magazine is not so appealing now she is no longer in it, and I'm sure the world has a Helen shaped hole in it.
Jean Greenwood
March 8, 2009
Dear Bill & family, and friends, too,
I learned belatedly of Helen's passing, and was so sorry to hear about it. We have lost a lovely, gifted, and courageous woman, and my heart goes out to you. I had the pleasure of knowing her for a while when I was filling in as pastor at North Como. I cherished our visits, and found her to be such a strong spirit, so bright and passionate, so generous. I came to her one day with a quilting question, and she pitched in, showing me exactly what I needed to do. She was a gem. You are all in my thoughts and prayers as you grieve her loss. I will remember Helen as someone who had weathered some storms, grown stronger, and lived fully until it was time to go. We are all joined and knit together, writes Paul in Ephesians 4, and I would add, in this life and beyond. Blessings to you all!
Ann Keeling
March 4, 2009
You, the family and all the quilting world has lost a genuine treasure. Whenever I got my Quilters Newsletter in the mail, I always turned immediately to her column and read it first. I felt like I was visiting with a long time friend. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you all
Sharon Pociask
February 18, 2009
My heartfelt sympathy to Helen's family. Her humor, poignant insights to life and reflections on quilting will be sorely missed.
Pam Goshorn
February 16, 2009
I was deeply saddened to learn recently of Helen's passing. I had never met her, but i did correspond with her once by email and was thrilled to get her reply. I read her column for many years in QNM and it was the column i always read first. I really felt i got to know her and her family reading it. She had such a great sense of humour! And she gave such wise and thoughtful advice.
Please remember that Helen will always be with us for as long and we remember and think lovingly of her. I for one will continue to do so. God bless you all in your grief and know that many others are praying for you on your journey of healing.
Kirsten Juenke
February 10, 2009
I was so saddened by this news...I've read and adored and looked forward to Helen's column ever since I started quilting in 1994. I am a bookkeeper for a sewing shop, and last year one of our customers dropped off her complete collection of QNM - how fun it was to read over Helen's column going back 20+ years! She was a treasure.
Lucinda Deans
February 7, 2009
I never met Helen, but feel that she was one of my good friends. Her column was always the first thing I read in QN. I shall miss her beautiful, uplifting words. Please have her columns published in book form! Bless you all as you adjust to your loss.
Elizabeth S. Voorhees
February 4, 2009
How much everyone will miss Helen's wonderful columns. The wisdom, humor and compassion shown in her postings, much needed in today's world, leaves a sad void. My love, prayers and smypathy to her family.
Ann Marie Governale
February 1, 2009
I was saddened today as I was reading the Dec/Jan issue of Quilter's Newsletter and learned that Helen passed away. I sat for a long time and felt such a sense of loss. I loved her columns; they were one of the best parts of the magazine for me. She could capture a feeling, a moment or an image with such clarity and freshness. I will miss her terribly as we all know, she spoke to us about so much more than quilts, she spoke to us about life. I am so lucky to have been comforted and inspired by her words over the years. God Bless all of you in your time of loss.
Frankie White
January 31, 2009
I met Helen when she came over to do a Retreat in Liecestershire, England some years ago. I have never forgotton her, and she was indeed a lady.
Carol Hoffman
January 28, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. I've enjoyed her writing for quite a few years now. I miss her.
Sharyl Schlieckau
January 25, 2009
Things just aren't the same...gosh, how I miss her articles. She made us feel part of her family and let us laugh with her and at ourselves. She showed us all that quilting is about so much more than the fabric.
Rosalie Sisevich
January 23, 2009
Helen's column was the first article I turned to in QN! I know she can never be replaced. God Blessed us with her.
Lisa Jenni
January 22, 2009
Dear Helen,
every time I get the QN delivered to my mail box, I want to open it and flip hastily thru the pages until I see your column. No more, - I miss your witt, charm and expertise badly.
Sue Smith
January 20, 2009
I was shocked and saddened when I read about losing Helen in the QNM. It truly broke my heart; her column was always the first thing I read when I received my magazine. God Bless.
Alicia Jasinsky
January 18, 2009
The only reason I subscribed to QN is because Helen Kelley was a columnist. Her writing was so clear, so plain, so heart-catching; I loved her thinking and her lovely thoughts. I miss you, Helen.
Faith Plummer
January 16, 2009
I enjoy Helen's writing so very much. Reading her column feels like reading a letter from home. I'll miss those "letters". My deepest sympathy to all of her family.
Candace Mugele
January 15, 2009
My sincerest condolences to you, Helen's family. I frequently shared her columns with my children because they would wonder why mom was chuckling to herself!
Her columns filled with wisdom, human foibles, gentle humor and quirks, unique to quilters, invited us into a larger world of quiltmakers. I will miss her perspective on our world.
My sincerest sympathies,
Debra Gregory
January 12, 2009
My own Mom's name was Helen, so maybe I felt an affinity for your Helen because of that. Her columns were fun to read and a great inspiration to me. I am sorry for your loss, but it is nice to think that your Helen is still sharing her love of everything with all of heaven! (and maybe she has met my Helen!)
Eleanor Rankin
January 11, 2009
Dear family of Helen Kelley,
How sadden I was to read of your dear Helen's passing. I was so impressed with her when she answered my email to her thanking her for her articles in the QNM last spring. When receiving the QNM each month I would turn to her article first thing. I will miss her thoughts terribly as I know you will. What a legacy she leaves for her family. God bless, Eleanor
Robin N.
January 6, 2009
Helen Kelley's column was always a joy for me to read. Her humor was so much like my own mother's that I identified with her immediately. I loved looking at her quilts, the one that most stands out when I think of her is the one with the playing card. Bless you all.
Theresa Broderick
December 30, 2008
I will truly miss reading her column, I learned a lot from her.
Jackie Pamenter
December 23, 2008
Helen's column was such an inspiration - the first thing I turned to, from the beginning to her final column, it was so full of quilterly optimism. I will miss her very much.
Maryellen Kmiec
December 23, 2008
I was so surprised and saddened when I logged onto QNM this morning and learned of Helen's passing. I looked forward to reading her column each month. Her humor and insightfullness always made for a 'great read'. She will be sorely missed.
Glenda Kaabar
December 18, 2008
News travels slowly to Dubai and it is only today that I read with great sadness of Helen's passing. From the tine I began quilting her column was always the first thing I sought when Quilter's Newsletter Magazine came to my door. Her love of life, quilting and especially of her family showed in all that she wrote. She had a wonderful knack of seeing the best in everyone and everything and there will never be anyone quite like her. My warmest condolences to her loving and supportive family. What a wonderful legacy she has left you in her quilts and her writings.
BETTE STEVENSON
December 15, 2008
dear bill&family,we will sure miss Helen. you will miss her more than us we are so sorry for your lose. her columns were always read first. she had down to earth wisdom.thank you for sharing her with us. sincerely Bette Stevenson.
Shannon Nay
December 14, 2008
"Shannon, I don't know why, but this book made me think of you the second I saw it." That's what my friend Stacy wrote to me when sending me Helen's first book for my birthday. Well, I knew why the second I held that book in my hands. I felt an instant connection to Helen and have loved her from the first word. She was the reason I subscribed to QN. I admired her stunning quilts online and once wrote to her to express how much I admired her work and her writing. I was anxious to tell her how much it all meant to me, as I have been teaching myself to quilt since 2006 and she kept me going when I experienced more frustration than fun. It was as if her writings were saying, just keep at it and keep smiling along the way. What I wanted to tell her the most is how much I appreciated her giving me a giggle and uplifting my heart more than she realized. I have had 25 loved ones die in the past 4 years. Her words and the connection to her that I felt, but can never explain, was the saving grace God brought to refresh my soul at some of the deepest, saddest times of my life. Helen was such a genrerous being and I will never forget her going above and beyond to honor a request I made. I asked her to send a scrap of fabric with her signature on it because I wanted to one day make a quilt for myself... a quilt of comfort since I experienced so many losses. It is indescribable the comfort, joy and awe my heart experienced when I opened the envelope to find not only a piece of fabric, but a WHOLE BLOCK. And, she sent a hand written thank you for a statuette I had sent her. Here, a very busy, famous quilter/writer took time to send a note to a fan. I was just preparing to send her a CD including a song titled Birch tree, as one of her articles mentioned how much she loved them, when I learned of her passing. I believe Helen was like a beautiful tree... strong, planting roots and yet branching out to embrace life and grow. I learned of Helen's death two weeks after losing my beloved, little dog Jack. I need that quilt of comfort more than ever now. I live in Texas and it doesn't usually snow here, but last week, I witnessed the first (and maybe the last) snow fall this season. And, do you know, it was as if Helen came to visit, flying in the snowflakes and softly landing on my palm, while gently encouraging me. I could almost hear her say "just find the joy in your heart, keep at it and make your quilt of comfort." I believe Helen was a mentor to many of us. She will truly be missed and I am wishing Mr. Kelley and all of Helen's family a comforting peace and many fond memories. Her legacy will not only live on through her beloved family, but also through all of us she chose to share her wit and wisdom with for many years. Pieces of Helen are pieces of heaven stitched in our hearts forever.
Beth Babler
December 10, 2008
I was so shocked to read about Helen's death in my QNM. That is always the first place I would turn to read when my magazine came. I have been reading her articles since 1983 and really loved all of them! She seemed like a great person and it was so great that she had the honor of being inducted into the Quilters Hall of Fame before she died. What a wonderful privilege for a great quiltmaker. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and husband.
Kari Hawkins
December 10, 2008
I was so sad to read about Helen's death today when I visited the QNM web site. She was one of the reasons I loved QNM. Her stories always inspired me, and gave me the confidence to try new things and to add my own unique perspective to my quilts. I loved the way she conquered problems, both in her quilting and in her life. I loved reading about her art, her family and her way of life in Minnesota (my home state). QNM will never be able to replace this wonderful quilter. I wish I had known her personally.
Muriel Markland
December 9, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of Helen's death. Like many quilters, I always read her page first in QNM. As my copy always takes a while to arrive and I have been away, I have only just heard. It will not be the same without her. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Barbara Martin
December 9, 2008
December 9, 2008
While visiting the QNM website today, I learned of Helen's passing. I have not been a subscriber to the magazine for a few years, but was there to get info to order a gift subscription for a friend. During the years that I received the magazine and pored over it from cover to cover, one of the first things I would turn to was Helen's column. She had a knack for hitting the nail directly on the head and did so with her marvelous sense of humor and truth. I extend my sympathy to you, her family, and all of us in the worldwide quilting family have indeed lost a dear friend.
Kay DuVall
December 7, 2008
I just read my Quilters Newsletter and learned that I have lost a friend. Over the years, we have shared a lot. She has inspired me to try new things, finish old things (or throw them out!), and to stop and appreciate my tiny little part of the world. I will miss her words and thoughts tremendously, but I'm happy that she seemed to have been doing what she loved right up to her last moments. Her love for her family showed through all of her work--may peace be with you.
charlotte maxwell
December 6, 2008
Helen will be missed. What made her great was that she was just a quilter like us. She struggled with color and seams like us. She had a good life. God Bless her husband. I know he will miss her greatly. Thanks for sharing her with us for all these years.
Charlotte Maxwell
Kathy Markan
December 6, 2008
I was so sad to read of Helen's passing. She will be greatly missed. Each time a new Quilters Newsletter came to our library Helen's page was the first I would turn to. It will not be the same now.My condolences to all her family & friends. She was truly a blessing for all of us.
Rosemary Dempster
December 6, 2008
I am so sad that Helen has died. For years I have read her column, and I felt I had a close friend. One who had the same trials and tribulations with quilting that I did, but also the joy when things went right. I was fortunate to take one of Helen's classes (I live in Scotland), and she was just what I thought she would be - friendly, inspiring, down-to-earth. Please convey my heartfelt, sincere wishes of condolence to her family and friends.
Laura O'Shea
December 5, 2008
I am so sad. I read here column every month. They were so informative. I will miss her very much
Laura O'Shea
Donna Wood
December 5, 2008
I feel like I have lost a beloved family member. Helen's wit and loving spirit was the highlight of every QNM magazine. I will miss her. My sympathy goes out to all her family and friends and the quilting world. We have all lost an amazing lady.
Deb Brodie
December 5, 2008
How empty QNM will be without Helen. She always made you to feel she was just like you - struggling to find the right fabric - the seams that didn't match - just an average soul. But she was so much more than that - she reached out to all of us and we all responded back by feeling we had known her forever. Heaven is all the richer for our loss. Oh - we shall miss her!
Susan Smith
December 4, 2008
I am so saddened by this news. I was just re-reading her fabulous column about starting new things and being avid about her quilts. I have read her column in Quilter's for ages and I will sorely miss her. My prayers are with her family, especially her wonderful husband. God bless them all and God Bless and thank Helen for all those wonderful years she gave the craft.
emma tasker tasker-van dam
December 2, 2008
when I received my quiltersnewsletter this morning and read about helen I cried.Why? Because she has been part of my life for the last 20 years. Like a familymember.I have enjoyed reading her column in quiltersnewsletter ever so much. she has given me inspiration to keep quilting. I have never met in person but I am sure I will in the other quiltersworld.To Helen s husband may you enjoy the wonderful feelings she bestowed on other people throughout her life. I wish you a long life. My name is Emma Tasker -van Dam andI live inCambridge-England.
Darlene Heiden
December 1, 2008
I absolutely loved the articles that Helen wrote for all quilters.
I will miss reading her column in Quilters Newsletter. Even though I had little time to quilt, reading her column inspired me to keep quilting and reminded me of the pleasure it brings me and all quilters.
renee pasquale
November 30, 2008
I picked up a copy of quiltersnewsletter magazine,and as usual I was flipping to find Helen's column---instead I found the sad editors note--indicating Helen Kelley passed away. It took me a couple of moments to digest what I had just read. Helen was my friend who I never met,nor spoke with--however I felt so connected to her. I have read all of her published books--and loved each one. Her columns were my inspiration. Her writing was personal and made one feel as if she was speaking directly to each and every reader. She had a wonderful appreciation for age and the old fashioned way--however she seemed to also appreciate and understand youth --tying in all generations. This unique quality is one that only few possess. Her ability to laugh at herself--and be so naturally human and honest was always so refreshing. Her kindness,warmness,good character, and love for her family was always evident in her writing. My deepest condolences are sent to her family. crafting.sewing,quilting and the creative process has enriched my life in ways that cannot be defined in words. May it be comforting to know that Helen lived her life doing what she loved,surrounding herself with people she loved ---this is truly a blessing!!! May the family find comfort in knowing Helen was an inspiration to so many-and truly a wonderful person.
Judith Ferris
November 30, 2008
I just got around to reading my December/January issue of Quilters Newsletter and learned of the death of Helen Kelley. I feel I need to tell you, as wonderful as Quilters Newsletter magazine is (and I’ve been reading it for more than 15 years) the first thing I turned to has always been Helen’s column because it always started my joyful reading of your magazine with a giggle.
The world is a slightly sadder and smaller place with Helen gone from us. Thank you Quilters Newsletter for sharing her joys and thoughts with us for so many years. She was a remarkable woman.
Judith Ferris
Houston, Texas
Nancy Borgeson
November 29, 2008
Learning of Helen's loss was a painful shock. As others have already written, hers was the first thing I read in QNM, every issue without fail, for over 20 years. I met her at a quilt event a number of years ago, and enjoyed visiting with her. I loved her cheerful outlook and ability to laugh at herself. She reminded me so much of my own mother, also a quilter and also now gone. She will be greatly missed.
Ann Miller
November 29, 2008
I was so saddened to read that Helen had died. It is like losing a friend although we never met. I loved her columns and her lack of pretense about quilting. It was wonderful to read how such an accomplished quilter still struggled with her work and her own lack of confidence at times. She will be sorely missed! My most heartfelt condolences to Bill and to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Citlali Contreras
November 28, 2008
With a heavy heart I read the news of Hellen's passing. She was an inspiration to me, many thousands of miles away. I was a suscriber to QN, and the first thing I did upon the magazine's arrival was look up her column. Her poignant writting, the wholesomeness of her stories told of a wonderful woman, a woman of character, of strength and of a great heart. She will be missed.
Kim Owens
November 25, 2008
I was deeply saddened to hear of Helen's passing. I always looked forward to reading her column as soon as I received my QNM. I feel as though I lost a very dear friend. Her down to earth style reminded me so much of my own mother who passed away in 2003. She will be qreatly missed. My heart and prayers go out to the family.
Linda LaRose
November 24, 2008
Helen brought humor (for ourselves) and empathy (for others) to all of us who made her column "the first thing I have to read" when the magazine arrived, no how busy my day. Although never having met her, I feel that we would have been good friends had we met. My sympathy and prayers to your family.
sara celli
November 24, 2008
i was shocked to hear the new. the very first column i always red was helen's. i will carry her sympathy with me in every quilt i'll make. she will always live since we carry a piece of her in us.
Christine Baumann
November 23, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, our loss, my loss. Like many others, the QNM's arrival signified a cuppa and chat with a dear friend, a kindred spirit, someone who lived and understood the slightly weird world of quilters every where. She will be sadly missed and my thoughts are with you all.
Charlotte Welton
November 23, 2008
While checking the Quilters Newsletter website, I saw Helen's obituary. One of the highlights of QNM and the first thing I read in each issue was her column. Her presence in the quilting world will be missed. I loved her down to earth insights and delightful humor in any situation. My sympathy to all her family. Her inspiration will be missed.
Leslye Tomney
November 23, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of Helen's passing. Reading her column each month was like sitting down to a cup of tea with a dear friend. We will miss her. My prayers and sympathy to her family.
Nell Rae Dwyer
November 22, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of Helens passing, she was an inspiration to me several times while I was just starting to quilt back in the 90's. Helen helped me several times-she will be saddly missed, since I thought of her not only as friend, but a fellow Minnesotan, I was from Duluth, and left there in 1982-My love and prayers go out to Bill and her wonderful families. I shall look forward to quilting with her in Heaven someday-
Elizabeth Templeton
November 22, 2008
What a sadness, what a loss. Several years ago I wrote Helen despairing of my efforts - darned good but unschooled, and traditional, not "inspired". She wrote an encouraging and supportive reply that I will always cherish. No wonder so many of us have always read her column first! I will miss looking for what Helen would be saying "this time".
Annemieke Hengeveld
November 21, 2008
Only know I found out about Helen's passing away. I will miss her dry down to earth humour and her so recognizable stories. She was like a dear auntie.
Annemieke, Creston BC, Canada (A Dutchie living in Canada).
Valeria Wolff
November 21, 2008
I just learned about Helen's death and am so sorry. Her monthly coumn in QNN was always so positive and inspiring . She will be missed greatly
tre seibert
November 20, 2008
i sit here and cry as if i have lost someone from my own family. she was a dear person, who made opening the magazine every month that more exciting to read what she had to say for that month. my best to the family, and so sorry that she is gone.
Ruth Harms
November 20, 2008
I am so very sorry to hear of our loss of Helen Kelley. I have been a devoted fan and admirer for over 20 years. Her talent, her wit, her wonderful outlook on life (even when things wern't going just right!) will be sorely missed by the entire Quilting Community. My deepest sympathies go out to her family at this sad time.
Sue Radkiewicz
November 20, 2008
Helen, we will all miss you as much as if you'd been a member of our own family. Because, you were.
Dixie Haywood
November 20, 2008
I was shocked and saddened to hear that I will no longer have my monthly visit with Helen, who I have known in person for thirty years. She was unique and will be missed, but her contributions to all of us will live in our hearts
Terry Garey
November 20, 2008
Dear Helen, your writing was a delight and an inspiration. Thank you so much for sharing part of yourself with us all those years.
My deepest sympathies to your family and many friends.
Doreen Coon
November 20, 2008
I was deeply shocked to open my Quilters Newsletter mag. to read of
Helen's passing. I emailed her on the occasion of her 80th birthday and she was so kind as to take the time to reply. Her column was one of the very first things I read when I got a new magazine. I will definitely miss her great sense of humour and anecdotes. Please except my sincere sympathies.
Debbie Rice
November 20, 2008
I feel as though I just lost a friend. I too learned of her passing through QNM. Reading her articles and books I felt like she was looking into my soul and heart and could put words to what I too feel about quilting and life!
I emailed her a few years ago and she took the time to email me back. I have that email printed out in my quilt scrapbook. I treasure it.
I know I am among thousands of quilters who will carry her sweet spirit with us until we meet her again.
Linda Stokes
November 19, 2008
I just found out about Helen. I feel as though I lost a dear friend. Every month I looked forward to reading her new adventures or misadventures. I send my deepest condolences to Bill and her daughters and grandchildren.
Nancy DeAngelis
November 19, 2008
I was so very sorry to hear of Helen's passing. It was her ablility to relate tender loving thoughts thru her writing of "Loose Threads". I was a better person for having read her articles and books. I truly will miss her each month in Quilter Newsletter. Happy Quilting Helen.
Nancy DeAngelis
Brighton, Michigan
Cindy Larson
November 19, 2008
I was just shocked to read of her passing as I just received my Quilters Newsletter magazine today. It definitely won't be the same without her article (Pretty much the only reason I subscribe to it). I'm so happy that I did get to meet her in Paducha a few years back. She certainly was a wonderful woman. I will miss her dearly.
Cindy
Geri Laubscher
November 19, 2008
I will miss Helen and her column in Loose Threads. I so enjoyed it. May you be comforted in the memories and legacy she has left behind and may the God of all comfort, comfort your hearts.
Nancy Dickerson
November 19, 2008
I received my copy of Quilters Newsletter yesterday and saw the notice of Helen's passing. I will miss her column as I have read it for 25 years. My condolences to her husband and family.
Carol Becvar
November 19, 2008
I was saddened to read of Helen's passing in QN magazine. Her column was one of the first things I read in the magazine. It brightened my day!
Shelia Wood
November 19, 2008
I only knew Helen through her column in QN. I have been a subscriber for years and I have always enjoyed her columns. There were many issues over the years the only thing I read was her column. She made everyone feel as if she were speaking directly to them instead of millions of readers.I feel as if I know your family in a small way, she welcomed us into her life and shared many things.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Thank You to Helen for the gifts she gave to us all.
Nancy Gardner
November 19, 2008
I will miss her column "Loose Treads". I enjoyed reading first thing when my magazine arrived. So nice she was honored in the Hall of Fame.
Her works will continue on for a life time.
Heidi Howery
November 18, 2008
I've always looked forward to reading Helen's column. I will miss her. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones.
November 18, 2008
It was just today that I read of Helen's passing in QNM. Hugs to you all, her family, and to the rest of us, her quilting family. I'm so sorry for our collective loss. Helen's column often was the ONLY part of the magazine that I made it to in a busy month. She was a special treat, indeed.
Kay Schultz
November 18, 2008
I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Helen. Her articles brought a smile to my heart and showed us what a wonderful person she was. I am thankful that I could share in her wonderful experiences and will miss her and her articles dearly. My thoughts and prayers are will Bill and her family.
Verna Bright
November 18, 2008
I'm so sad to read of Helen's passing. Her columns have been a chief reason for my subscribing to Quilters Newsletter all these years. I felt that I knew her and Bill as she shared her thoughts and experiences, encouraging with love and common sense. Godspeed, Helen.
jeannette catchpaugh
November 18, 2008
I have lost a friend that I looked forward to meeting every time I received my quilting magazine, she will be greatly missed.
Shirley Hedman
November 17, 2008
It was probably in the '70's that I met Helen, and because I live in Schenectady, we felt like friends. That feeling lasted through our very rare contacts, and today I feel as though I've lost a friend. I send my love to her family.
Marcia
November 17, 2008
I received my copy of QNM today and am so sad to hear of Helen's passing. I always read her articles first. Using her wonderful sense of humor, she put things into perspective. I realized that even the pros make mistakes and have to "reverse stitch" just like I do. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Helen Kelley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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