Obituaries/Viewings
Helen L. Rhines | 88
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Helen L. “Tubby” Rhines, 88, of 113 Poplar Road, St. Marys, passed away Friday, October 29, 2021, at her residence, after a lengthy illness.
She was born September 1, 1933, in St. Marys, daughter of her birth parents, the late Alfred “Fritz” and Edna Filer Erich and her foster parents, the late LaVerne “Barney” and Marie Erich, who were also Tubby’s uncle and aunt. Tubby was a lifelong resident of the area and attended St. Marys Schools.
On April 14, 1956, in Queen of the World Church, Helen married the late Robert M. Rhines, who preceded her in death on December 5, 1996.
She is survived by five daughters: Kim Salone of DuBois, Lisa Lavella (Chris Pistner) of Kersey, Jackie Rhines of St. Marys, Patricia Szczotka (Richard) of Ridgway, and Bobbi Jo Webber (Chris) of Melbourne, FL; six grandchildren: Phillip, Douglas, Nicholas, Thomas, Sarah, and Robert; two sisters: Kathleen “Katty” Wehler and Judith Wendel (James) both of St. Marys; five step-siblings who were also her cousins: Joanne Dippold, Donna Roseberry, Linda Mohr (William), Vern “Oats” Erich (Virginia), and Blaze Bauer (Marilyn) all of St. Marys; and by several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, parents and foster parents, Tubby was preceded in death by two sisters: Shirley Adams and Gloria “Binkey” Eichmiller; two brothers: John “Jack” Erich and Donald Erich in childhood; and by her partner, Richard Haizlett.
Family came first for Tubby, she loved her children and simply adored her grandchildren. She was thankful for the family and greatly appreciated all the loving individuals that cared for her later in life. She was a member of Queen of the World Church. She enjoyed her time at camp, liked to hunt, see the elk and enjoyed her dogs, Tiny and Princess. She will be greatly missed.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Queen of the World Church on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, at 12:00 PM, with the Rev. Jeffery Noble, Pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation is at the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Monday, November 1, 2021 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Elk County Humane Society, 1029 E. Eschbach Road, St. Marys, PA 15857.
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To Kim, Lisa, Patti,Jackie and Bobby Jo,
I am sorry for your loss. Tubby was a great lady who was always a source of joy and a great sister to my mom Shirley. They had a lot of fun together. I wish I could have known her, and each of you, a lot better. Tubby was “today’s woman” before it became popular❣️I am sure she will be missed by all😇
Brings back so many great memories from Poplar Road. Your mom and Shirley drinking Lipton tea and listening to country music while all us girls played. What a great and special lady. The last of our families to leave the neighborhood.
Extending our most heartfelt sympathies to each of you. Such a kind soul. As these difficult days pass, may special memories brings smiles to your faces once again.
Love,
Dave & Susie Weinzierl
Your mother was an amazing person. There are no words to tell you how sorry I am. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Robin,
I bowled with Doris & Tubby on Thursday nights at Blvd. Lanes.
We had so much fun. She was always so quiet. Then we’d head out to the Brother’s Inn for a beverage! My deepest sympathy to
your mom, you & Tubby’s entire family. May she Rest in God’s Peace.
So sorry for your loss. Sending prayers for peace and comfort to all the family.
So very sorry, Tubby was one of the kindest people I ever met. R.I.P.
So sorry for your loss. You all are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Dean, Mary, & Ryan Hanes
I’ll never forget when she was grumpy and I would say, ” Did you take your grumpy pills today, Tubba Wubba? ” she would promptly laugh and say ” Yes” !!!! Such a sweet and wonderful beautiful woman!
Sorry for your loss. My Prayers are with the Family.
I am so very sorry for the loss of your Mom, I hope that the memories fill your heart with much warmth!