Helen Jean Marcum lived nearly a century on this earth. In that time, she was called daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, cousin, grandmother, mother-in-law, great grandmother, and friend. She worked administrative jobs in a time when women were second class citizens. But Helen lived by her own rules, not those dictated to her. She enjoyed her youth and experienced love and marriages, and interesting adventures including overseas living with a military husband.

Also called Polly by some close family, a nickname started during her childhood, she was born in the Depression-era and lived through World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the Persian Gulf War, 9/11 and the War on Terror, and so many other conflicts. She saw the Civil Rights Movement unfold and watched the US plant a flag on the Moon. She witnessed the end of the Cold War and the rise of the internet. The timeline of her life will always be impressive.

Helen fiercely placed her family above all else. She raised one accomplished son, who returned the favor and became her dutiful caretaker, especially in the final season of her life.

Helen was an intense genealogist for quite some time, tracing her family history back tens of generations. What began as a hobby evolved into a legacy for her family to pick up the torch now.

One meeting with her would let you know she was feisty and sassy. She had a quick wit and wasn't afraid to banter when the situation warranted humor and sarcasm. Even on her last full day, she was cracking jokes.

One of her greatest traits was her tender heart for animals. As a lifelong pet parent, Helen loved her furry companions deeply, and they brought her tremendous joy. She was heartsick when she saw news reports of cruelty or neglect and always wanted to help if she could.

Helen is survived by her only son, John F. Taylor (Jeanne Taylor); three loving grandchildren, Timothy D. Taylor (Katherine Molenaar), Adele J. Anderson (Brian Anderson), and Brock R. Taylor; a brilliant great-grandson, Otis S. Taylor, and a beautiful great-granddaughter, Ruby C. Molenaar-Taylor. She is also survived by nieces Donna Walker, Darcel Bowers and Kelly Davis, and nephew Chris Creamer, along with so many great nieces, nephews, and friends. With such a long life, those who predeceased her are far too many to list.

A private service will be scheduled in the near future. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choosing.

Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. Northwoods Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.