Mary Helen Romero

Helen grew up in Fresno and graduated from San Joaquin Memorial in 1959. She married her husband, Silvano, on February 10, 1962, and the two celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this year. When her three children were growing up, Helen was a dedicated mother and stayed at home to raise and care for them. While she never drove, Helen made sure she never missed a school or athletic event even if it meant she took the bus or rode her bike. In 1985, she started working for Fresno Unified School District as an instructional aide and cafeteria worker. She retired from FUSD after 14 years at Lane Elementary School.

Helen was a wonderful mom and grandmother, the matriarch of the family, aways making sure everyone was taken care of. She showed her love to the family through her endless generosity. Helen was the most dedicated and loyal fan of her children and grandchildren, always showing her support and love. Watching her children and grandchildren play sports was her passion and brought her extreme joy in life. From football, soccer, baseball, softball, cross country, track & field to lacrosse, Helen never missed a game. She was also a proud supporter of Fresno State baseball and a loyal Dugout Club member.

Helen will be remembered for making sure the family always got together to celebrate birthdays and holidays, which included hosting the family Christmas breakfast. One of her greatest pleasures was sending beautiful, hand-made cards for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. As a loving wife, mom, and grandma, she will be dearly missed and always be in our hearts.

The youngest of 13 children, Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Francesco and Francesca Del Real; sisters Lucy, Pauline, Theresa and Cora; brothers Frank Jr., Rudy and Ralph. Helen is survived by her husband, Silvano (Nano) Romero; her children Cynthia, Paul (wife Kellie) and Philip (wife Carole); two grandchildren McKay and Elisabeth; her brothers Harold (wife Martha) and Alfred; sister Dolores; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

There will be a visitation held at Whitehurst Funeral Home on Sunday, May 15, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. On Monday, May 16, the recitation of holy rosary will occur at 9:00 am at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Fresno, followed by mass at 9:30 am. Graveside service will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Fresno. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Spirit Catholic Church (note Priest Retirement Fund in memo line) or donor’s favorite charity.