91 Years
Helen Cowles Thompson, 91, of Northfield died peacefully at Charlene Manor Extended Care Facility in Greenfield on Friday morning (8-31-07), after living many years with congestive heart disease.
She was born in New York City, N.Y., on March 29, 1916, the daughter of Hazel Wright Cowles of Nova Scotia, who came to the United States in 1908, and David Otis Cowles of Iowa, a Methodist minister. The family lived in New Jersey, where the Rev. Cowles served several churches as Helen grew up. In 1938, she graduated from American University, where she was voted ”Best Loved” in her dormitory.
She was married to William Thompson in 1939 until his death in 1992. They lived in Fairmont, West Va., Georgetown, Mass., and Seneca Falls, N.Y., where Mr. Thompson was employed by Sylvania.
Living in southern California from 1954 until 1982, Helen was active in community affairs. For several years, she served as president of the Guild of St. Jude Hospital in Fullerton, Calif., coordinating all volunteer services in the hospital. For her entire life she treasured her summers on Rustic Ridge in Northfield, and retired there with her husband in 1982.
Helen was cherished by her family and friends for her warm and generous spirit. She put others first and maintained an optimistic outlook.
She is survived by her sister, Kathleen Denise of Easthampton; her daughter, Lynne Jacoby and son-in-law, Bill Jacoby, of Roanoke, Va.; her son, David Thompson and daughter-in-law, Sarah Hoffman, of Northfield; grandchildren, Erik Jacoby, Chris Jacoby, Lea Emery, Caitlin Thompson, Megan Thompson and Joshua Hoffman; great-grandson, Tucker Emery, and by three nieces; two great-nieces and a great-nephew.