Helen was born in Niagara Falls.  She married T. Henry Murphy on June 8th, 1953.  They were married for 45 years when he predeceased her in August of 1998.  They had a wonderful life and lived in the North Shore of Long Island ~ Roslyn and Glen Cove for 38 years and made many good friends.  She and Henry came home to reside in Lewiston while maintaining their friendships of Long Island and making new friends here.  Family meant a great deal to Helen and she loved having them around her! She was an amazing friend to many.  About four years ago she moved from Lewiston to the wonderful community of Elderwood Residences at Wheatfield at Independent Living Facility.

Helen was born on February 11th to late Amin Merched and Monsora (Solomon) Touma.  She is survived by brother, Richard A. (Margaret) Touma.  Her brothers predeceased her were Edward A. (Evelyn) Touma and Dr. Gamil A. (Jean) Touma.  Sister-in-laws are still living. She is also survived by nieces and nephews, Edward (Laurel) Touma of Pa, Marc Touma of Niagara Falls, Louise (Robert) Ganley of Williamsville, Jeanie Touma of Niagara Falls, Craig (Hon. Diane Vitello) Touma of Niagara Falls, Catherine (David) D’Angelo of Niagara Falls, and Andrew (Jocelyn) Touma of Niagara Falls, the late Dane Touma of Florida, and several great and great great nieces and nephews.

Helen was a graduate of St Mary’s of the Cataract grammar and high school.  She attended Niagara University and went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts from Long Island University; CW Post Campus. Helen worked as a librarian in Niagara Falls, NY, and in Long Island. Prior to becoming a librarian, Helen worked in the family store which was Touma’s Confectionary and Ice Cream Parlor. She volunteered for non-profit organizations including the American Red Cross during WWII and Glen Cove Community Hospital.

Helen and her family were instrumental in the start-up of the former Our Lady of Lebanon Church, where she was a member of their Altar and Rosary Society. Helen was a member of the Niagara Frontier Country Club; Youngstown, New York, she loved attending the Lewiston Senior’s, she was a member of St Francis Guild of St Mary’s Hospital, and a member of Niagara Women’s Club.  Helen was an avid bridge player.

The family would like to extend a deep appreciation for her dedicated helpers (Judy, Rory, Debbie & Anna) who came into her home to assist her.  A special thank you goes out to Judy Nye who has been helping her for over twelve years.  Thank you also to Hospice who came on board very recently but made her last days filled with dignity and comfort.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094 and St. John de LaSalle Church, 8477 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14304 in her name.

There will be no prior visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 2nd at 10:00 a.m. in St. John de LaSalle Church, 8477 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY, with Rev. Stewart Lindsay, O.S.F.S. serving as celebrant. PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT THE CHURCH.  Prayers of committal and interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, in the Town of Niagara.

Please visit www.ottoredanz.com for online condolences.