Helen Doriath Renteria passed away peacefully on November 27, 2024, in Miami, Florida, at the age of 98. Born on June 14, 1926, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Helen lived a long and fulfilling life, deeply rooted in her Catholic faith.

In November 1949, Helen embarked on what was meant to be a temporary honeymoon in Miami with her husband, Frank. Yet, the couple was so captivated by the warmth of this vibrant city that they chose to plant their roots there, eventually raising a large and loving family comprised of five children, seven grandchildren, and countless great-grandchildren. Initially residing in a cozy apartment on Ocean Drive, Helen and Frank soon found their forever home in North Miami, where they invested lovingly in the lives of their children.

A devoted mother and active member of her community, Helen shared her boundless energy by involving herself in various activities, especially during her children’s formative years. She was a dedicated member of St. James and later St. Lawrence Catholic Church, where her Catholic faith shone brightly. As a nurturing Boy Scouts den mother for her three boys, Helen imparted valuable life lessons, fostering values of compassion and resilience. One of her lesser-known yet invaluable contributions was helping count the church collection, a task she diligently performed until navigating the rectory stairs became too strenuous.

Helen was also associated with the Archdiocese of Miami, Lighthouse for the Blind, and the Camilus House, all endeavors embodying her lifelong commitment to service. Her wit and intelligence were just as remarkable as her kindness, endearing her to everyone she met. Never knowing a stranger, Helen’s heart of gold extended her hospitality far beyond her immediate family, welcoming countless guests and a few strays brought home by her children.

Helen was predeceased by her husband, Francis, and her son, Peter. Her legacy remains in the hearts of her surviving children: Jeanne, Christopher, Stephen, and Mary. The family invites all who knew her to a celebration of her life on Wednesday, December 4, at 9 am with a service at 11 am all at Landmark Funeral Home, 4200 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33021, with interment to follow at Vista Memorial Gardens.

As we gather to honor Helen’s life, let us embrace her philosophy of joy and resilience. She wished for us to focus not on grief but on the countless happy memories she imparted. "I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one. I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days. I'd like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun. Of happy memories that I leave when my life is done." In keeping her words close to our hearts, we cherish the happiness and warmth Helen brought into our world, confident her spirit will forever illuminate our paths.