Biography: Hellen was born on May 8, 1944 to Mary Moultrie and Samuel Owens Jr. in Harlem, NY. The youngest girl in the family, she spoke often of the fun filled days she and her sisters shared as well as how she lovingly cared for her younger brothers David and William who passed as a child.
Graduating from Washington Irving High School in 1964, Hellen’s first job was as a domestic, along with her mother and aunt. Later in the 60’s she began her long career at The Telephone Company from which she retired in 1994.
Family meant everything to Hellen. She often hosted large family events for holidays and celebrations because being with her family brought her so much joy. She was a caring friend, always going above and beyond to ensure everyone was safe, had what they needed and, no one went without. She remembered everyone’s birthday, anniversary, any important day in their life and noted it with a card or phone call. She was an excellent mother and loved her children fiercely, working tirelessly to ensure their success while always offering words of encouragement, a wonderful smile and a playful sticking out of her tongue.
Hellen faced some health challenges throughout her life but, her unfaltering spirit, quiet determination and faith, kept her strong, and in good spirits. She loved music, good food and puzzles, and was always up for a game of Jumble or Scrabble. She left many in tears after beating them in a long game of Scrabble.
It is impossible to describe someone so great and influential in a few short paragraphs. But know that if you met our mom, you were blessed. You were blessed to be in the company of a great spirit. Know that if she met you, she loved you, even if you only met briefly. Know that if you exchanged names with her, she remembered you and asked about you and prayed for you.
She will be missed immensely. There is no one in this world who could ever fill the space that she filled.
Awaiting that time when we meet again are your loving children, Sean Owens and Shameka Stephens, your devoted grandchildren, Takquan McGill, Shantel Owens, Lauryn Owens and Harmony Stephens-Douglas. Your devoted daughter in love, Linda Owens. Your sisters Mary Elizabeth Billy, Pearline McCord, Lillie Brown and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and adopted family members.
As Sean would sing to you always, “I’ll always love my mama, she’s my baby girl, you only get one, you only get one”.