Helyn M. Jones, beacon of happiness, joy

Helyn M. Jones passed away peacefully Monday, Sept. 23, 2024, at home surrounded by her family. She was born in Penns Grove, N.J., Feb. 4, 1941, to the late Charles Terry Hand and Helen Laffarty. She was the oldest of three, with siblings Butch and Mae. 

Helyn enjoyed being the life of the party and never missed an occasion to celebrate with her family and friends. She dedicated her time to volunteering at various veteran organizations. She spent many years bartending, lighting up her customers’ faces with cheer and unwavering happiness. 

Helyn is preceded in death by her late husbands; her brother, Charles Hand II; and her grandson, Zachary. 

Helyn is survived by her sister, Mae Hand-Louth; her children, Earl Ellis, Karen Cox, Brenda Futch (Johnny Futch), Ronald Ellis and Thomas Ayers. In addition, Helyn cherished her grandson, Cody Ayers, whom she raised; along with many grandchildren, other family members and close friends, who will forever remember her warmth and the joy she brought into their lives.

Helyn will always be remembered as a radiant beacon of happiness and joy. Whether through a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or her infectious laughter, she spread light and love wherever she went.

A Celebration of Life will be held from noon to 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 3, at Long Neck AMVETS Post 22, 32369 Long Neck Road, Millsboro. Helyn will be interred alongside her late husband, the love of her life, David E. Jones, at Delaware Veterans Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Helyn’s memory to the Long Neck AMVETS Post 22 Ladies Auxiliary, 32369 Long Neck Road, Millsboro, DE 19966.

Visit Helyn’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.