Helen M. Leahey, aged 91, died on March 1st, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, John J. Leahey. She is survived by her eight children: Mary Conner, Martha Reed, John A. Leahey, Margaret Byerly (Meg), Joseph Leahey (Joe), Melissa Foss (Missy), Anne Marie Blacketer, Paul Leahey, and their spouses; 21 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Helen was born in Panther, Pennsylvania and raised in the Pocono mountains, the daughter of Felix C. Olsommer and Emily O. Jones. She had twin brothers, Ronald and Donald Olsommer who both predeceased her.

After graduating with an RN from Hahnemann University Hospital, she worked as a nurse in Scranton PA where she met and married the love of her life.

In 1957 Helen and family relocated to the Chicagoland area where she and her husband raised their family.

In 1987 when her spouse retired, they moved to Ormond Beach, FL, where they enjoyed hosting family gatherings ensuring that their children's children knew them and each other.

After her spouse passed away Helen moved to the Atlanta area to live closer to her children who had the sense to live somewhere warmer than Chicago. She spent her remaining years visiting with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, her siblings, their spouses, children, and grandchildren as well as friends from their extensive travels who were like family.

Helen had diverse interests. She was an avid reader, gardener, crafter, wine connoisseur, and self trained chef. She was a gracious, generous loving person who was an instant friend to everyone she met.

Helen often said that her family was her greatest accomplishment. Those of us who survive her could not agree more.

Services will be held in a private family event.