Helen R. (McKeown) Manion

Helen R. Manion (nee McKeown) of Woodlyn, PA formerly of Southwest Philadelphia died peacefully on May 21, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Joseph L. Manion Sr. Loving mother of Barbara Manion Downing (Dan), Maureen Cassidy (Michael "Reds"), Chris Kattak (Eugene), Joe Jr. (the late Diane), BettyAnne, Bill (Sue), Eileen “Beany" Gavula (Steve), and Karen Gonzalez (Adrian). Also survived by 10 grandchildren, Joe III, Devin, Stephen (Laura), Ryan, Billy, Bridget, Sarah, Haley, Madison, AJ and 2 great grandsons Joe IV and Chase, as well as her sister-in-law Annette McKeown and many nieces and nephews.

Helen was born and raised in Southwest Philadelphia. She was the daughter of the late Bill and Esther McKeown (nee Quigley) and was one of six children. She was the last surviving sibling in her family.

Helen was a life-long parishioner of St. Barnabas parish. She was a member of the CYO and served as a Girl Scout leader and a “Cookie Mother”.  She later worked at Hoffert Candies at the Philadelphia airport.

Helen cherished spending time with her sisters and brothers and was devoted to her children and grandchildren. She could often be found in the stands cheering her kids and later the grandkids on for whatever sport they were playing. In the summer she enjoyed spending time at O’Mahoney Swim Club.

After Joe retired, they found pleasure in traveling and spending time in Ocean City, NJ. She appreciated a good political discussion and after raising 6 girls one of her desires was to see a women president. Helen was an avid fan of Frank Sinatra and she loved watching the Food Network and the Hallmark channels.

Burial services will be private and a memorial mass to celebrate Helen's life will be held at a later date when friends and family are able to gather.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Helen's memory to Saint Barnabas Church, 6300 Buist Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19142 or Humane Pennsylvania, 1729 N. 11th Street, Reading, PA 19604 would be appreciated.

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