Helen Elizabeth Lawson, age 87 of Joliet, passed away on April 7, 2025 with her devoted family at her side. Survived by her children Bob (Dawn) Lawson, Greg (Candy) Lawson, Cathy (Jeff) Meager, and Mike (Donna) Lawson, grandchildren, sister Elaine (late Jerald) Armstrong, numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents Leo and Ida (nee Oster) Helvig, the father of her children David Lawson, her brothers Marvin and Allen Helvig, and her sister Mary Shinaberger.

Helen graduated from Minot High School in Minot, North Dakota. She worked as a phone operator for Washington Bell in her career beginnings and spent time as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She also took the role of secretary for her brother-in-law at UIC, Inc. and, most recently, for the Franciscan Sisters of Sacred Heart at the Motherhouse.

Helen was a special and spiritual person. She was an Associate of Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, professed member of St. Anthony of Padua Fraternity since May 2016, member of the St. Joseph Senior Group as well as St. Joseph Altar and Rosary Society. She was very dedicated and involved with her church, St. Joseph's Church of Joliet, as a lector, sacristan, and eucharistic minister. She also took part in a monthly prayer group and became a Third Order Franciscan. In her spare time, Helen loved sewing, crocheting, and completing puzzles. Her ultimate role was being a caregiver to everyone in her life and path. She was always in her family's lives- ready to jump in and help when help was needed, whether or not she was asked for it. Most beloved aunt, great aunt, and sister who will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation for Helen will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 from 4:00-8:00 P.M. at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home. Prayers will take place the following morning on April 16, 2025 at 9:30 A.M., also at the funeral home, which will be immediately followed by Procession to St. Joseph's Church, 416 N Chicago St, Joliet, IL 60432 for Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 A.M. Interment Saint Joseph Cemetery, 15800 W Manhattan Rd, Manhattan, IL 60442. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.