Helen A. Gruver

Helen Ann Gruver (Novy), a unique and beautiful soul, transitioned to a more peaceful place on January 20, 2024, spending her last days surrounded by her loving family. Helen was adored for her spitfire nature, witty spirit, unending kind heart and zest for life. She was admired for having a strong will and being true to her soul and marching to the beat of her own drum, something she also valued in herself.
Born in Still Creek and raised in Tamaqua, Helen was the daughter of the late Major Theodore and Ida Novy (Wills). In addition to her parents, Helen was predeceased by a brother Teddy.

Helen loved all animals and was a great friend to the Carbon County Animal Shelter, for which she led a fundraising campaign in 2023. Having spent the last year and a half in dialysis treatment, Helen raised funds for the campaign by instituting a Lenten swear jar at the Davita St. Lukes Dialysis Center, whereby each time someone cussed, they must contribute. Helen pre-deposited money in the jar each time she entered the center. She had a passion for spirituality, thrifting, reading, cruising, music, gardening, and traveling. She enjoyed her monthly luncheons with her classmates, especially the Band of Five, proving that some friendships last a lifetime. Some of her fondest memories were of years spending summer Sundays together at the family’s grove in Still Creek. Following her mother’s passing, Helen took pride in being the
matriarch and nurturer of the family and keeping everyone together, which she did beautifully.

She had a diverse career history, including as a direct-support professional, truck driver and eighteen wheel armored driver.

Helen is survived by three cherished daughters, Denise Fitzgibbon (Jeff) of Eden, Vermont, Jennifer King (Marcello Russo), and Melissa Wickersham (Dennis) of Tamaqua, as well as her beloved companion, her rescue dog Bud. She loved her grandchildren, Kayla, Madison and Nathan Wickersham, and she couldn’t have been more proud of their accomplishments and college pursuits. She was close to her siblings Gary Novy (Tamaqua) and Lisa Novy-Wikowski (Elverson), as well as nieces and nephews who loved and admired her dearly.

Helen will always be known in her family for never saying goodbye, but saying “Love you most” instead.

Funeral Arrangements entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550

Funeral Service will be held on Thursday January 25, 2024 at 11 o'clock A.M. from the funeral home.  Friends may call from 9:30 A.M. until the time of services.

Interment will be in Sky View Memorial Park, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.

Memorials in her name to:
Carbon County Animal Shelter
63 Broad Street
Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania 18240

Helen requested that those attending her funeral wear tye dye or bright colors.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com