Helen Kelso, 92, Worked for Pantelis, Other Jewelers

Helen Kelso passed away Sunday, Oct. 7, five days after celebrating her 92nd birthday with friends.

The fourth of five daughters, she was born Oct. 2, 1926, to John and Matina (Stefanou) Kokinos, both natives of Greece.

She graduated from Haverhill High School, class of 1945, and was employed by several local jewelers, including Pantelis.

Upon her marriage to Robert Kelso in 1963, she moved to West Newbury where she continued to reside, most recently with family.

An avid gardener and longtime member of the West Newbury Garden Club, people often stopped to admire her lush gardens as they passed her River Road cottage. Helen had a keen and lifelong interest in politics, known for her staunch liberal viewpoint; she never shied from robust debate. Kind, social and giving Helen enjoyed a reputation as an excellent cook, particularly of Greek cuisine and pastries.

She loved to entertain and, for well over 50 years, baked scones and cookies for neighborhood children.

The couple enjoyed boating, traveling and sharing their home with several animals over their many years together. She was especially fond of “Sammy” a senior dog who joined her after her husband’s passing in 2011.

Helen was predeceased by her step daughter Gayle Kelso, sisters Angeline Engle, Athena Daly, Emily DiBurro, brothers-in-law; Russell Sheehan, Jack Engle, Timothy Daly and Pasquale DiBurro.

She is survived by her stepson Russell Kelso and his wife Beverly of Arkansas, their sons Blake and Jacob and their families; her sister Constance Sheehan of Groveland, sister-in-law Marilyn Kelso of Wisconsin , four great Grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her calling hours Friday, Oct. 12, from 10-10:45 a.m., at H.L. Farmer and Sons Funeral Home, 106 Summer St., Haverhill. A funeral service will follow at the funeral home at 11 a.m. Burial is in Bridge Street Cemetery, West Newbury.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice, or Holy Apostles Sts. Peter & Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 154-156 Winter St., Haverhill, MA 01830.