Helen Elizabeth DeLay, 86, passed away on February 14th, 2023 in St. Augustine, Florida.

Helen was born on July 1st, 1936 to the late Raymond and Blanche Brandenburg. She was the youngest girl of six daughters and four sons, all of whom were born at the family home in Martinsburg, West Virginia.

After graduating from high school, Helen enlisted in the United States Air Force. She spent two years in Texas, then was transferred to Ramey AFB in Puerto Rico, where she achieved the rank of Airman First Class.

While serving our country in this tropical paradise, Helen met the love of her life, Ted DeLay. After a whirlwind of romance, she and Ted were married on December 14th, 1957 in Martinsburg, at the home of her eldest sister Beatrice.

Helen and Ted moved first to Suwanee, Georgia and then to Baltimore, Maryland. Ted was transferred to Jacksonville in 1971 and they settled in the Arlingwood area.

Helen had a true "green thumb" and their yard was always filled with beautiful flowers. She and Ted often welcomed family and friends where they hosted many get-togethers. From July 4th barbeques and Blue Crab Feasts to Ted's famous fried turkeys, they were incomparable and enjoyed by all.

For several years on Halloween Helen and Ted, along with their Lamanto Avenue neighbors, would transform their garage into a Haunted House. After a couple of years, it became so popular, police would have to direct traffic through the area.

On July 4th, 2010, after 52 years of marriage, Ted passed away. Several years later, Helen sold her beloved home and lived with her son Lynn and his family. As her mobility decreased, she moved to Clyde E. Lassen Veterans Nursing Home. Helen's flair for decorating continued, and her beautiful room was admired by staff and visitors alike.

The past few weeks saw a change in Helen's health, and her family sought the assistance of Community Hospice of Northeast Florida. She was able to remain in her familiar room, and was cared for and comforted by their staff and by her family.

In addition to her husband and her parents, Helen was predeceased by all of her sisters and her brothers, along with several nieces and nephews. She never recovered from the sudden and unexpected death of her eldest son Dennis. His passing on December 22nd, 2011 profoundly affected her, along with all of his family and his friends.

Helen is survived by her sons and their wives, Kelly (Kelly) DeLay and Lynn (Debbie) DeLay, as well as Dennis's wife Yolanda DeLay. She is also survived by her former daughter-in-law Pam (Thomas) Gerard. Helen adored her grandchildren Jason (Rachel) DeLay, Brad (Erin) Christopher, Erik (Shelby) DeLay, Sarah (Brandon) Ross, Rachel Crosby, Michael DeLay, Awapuhi Alexander, and Devin (Toni) DeLay. She also leaves her great grandchildren Greyson, August, Reece, Blaklynn, Hudson, and Aerial, along with Gunner due in March.

Graveside services will be held on February 27th at 12:30pm at Jacksonville National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Helen's memory to Community Hospice of Northeast Florida.