Helen Wilson

Helen DePaolo Simons Wilson, 97, of Chester Springs, PA died on June 1, 2020 with her family by her side. Born August 10, 1922, in Pittsburgh, PA, she was the daughter of the late Vincenzo and Olympia DePaolo.

Helen was a graduate of Taylor Allderdice High School and Duquesne University’s Nursing Program. She served in the Army Cadet Nursing Corps during World War II.  She practiced for several years at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh and also taught psychiatric nursing. After raising four children, she continued her career as Director of Nursing at Oakmont Nursing Home. 

Helen was ahead of her time. A woman of many interests and achievements, she was loved by all. She was a scholarship recipient at Duquesne and proud of her education, wearing her class ring daily. Helen was also an award-winning artist, painting countless works of art for family and friends. In addition to her love for art, she also was passionate about music. A talented piano player, who also dabbled in the harmonica. 

Helen was truly one of a kind. Adored by family and friends, she looked after everyone as if they were her own. She was always there for someone in need, a guardian angel to many. There was almost nothing a jigger of wine or one of her famous meatballs couldn’t fix. Similar to how she cooked, she filled her life with love. Love for her faith, family, and friends.

Helen was predeceased by her first husband, Dallas Simons, her second husband, Samuel Wilson, her daughter, Pamela Simons Hill, stepson Donald Wilson, and ten siblings. 

She is survived by her children, Dallas Simons and his wife Nancy of Reston, VA, David Simons and his wife Donna of Longwood, FL, Lee Wallace and her husband, Tim, of Chester Springs, stepson Rodger Wilson and his wife Allie, and stepdaughter Jennie Wilson. “G” was adored by her grandchildren, Kara Simons Cochran, Andi Simons Witmer, Taylor, Jacquie and Kelly Wallace, Mackenzie Hill, Amy and Paige Simons, Margot Wilson, and her five great-grandchildren. 

Memorial contributions in Helen’s name may be made to Mount Hope Community Church, 12106 Frankstown Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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