Helen Elaine Miraldi

Helen Elaine Miraldi

Helen Elaine Miraldi, age 84, of Erie, died peacefully on Saturday August 31, 2013, in her sleep, at home, just as she wanted. She is now at peace and no longer suffering from illnesses that slowed her physically, but never her sharp mind and wit.

She was born in Oil City, Pa on July 23, 1929 a daughter of the late Paul & Ruth Tock Hughes.

Helen was devoted to her children and their families who were the center of her life. She was a working mom before it was the norm, and was the family matriarch. She raised her children to be independent with a strong work ethic. Grandma Miraldi was a beloved and respected presence in the lives of her grandchildren, always generous and offering words of wisdom and encouragement.

She happily shared her opinions and was an intelligent conversationalist on a variety of topics, including politics and current events. Helen was a voracious reader with a keen ability to complete crosswords, including the New York Times puzzle. An animal lover with a huge heart, she passed along to her family a love of dogs and cats. For as long as we can remember, the household always included a pet dog, who became a member of the family. She also provided her children with an appreciation and love for music and classic movies. Long before cable TV and the internet, she made family nights special with music and endless jigsaw puzzles.

Helen valued her family and was proud of everyone's accomplishments. She always found the good in people and set an example of unconditional love for family. She provided comfort and possessed a gentle soul -- she will be terribly missed.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Henry Miraldi; a sister, Margaret (Peg) and her husband Phil Pieri

She is survived by her children, Cindy (John) Henderson of Wattsburg, PA, Hank (Suzan Hunt) Miraldi of Albion, PA, Elaine Mills of Erie, PJ (Steve) Guagliano of Lancaster, PA, and Marilyn Goellner of Edinboro, PA; grandchildren, Brian (Michelle) Henderson, Eric Henderson, Gina Kloftt, Ruth (Gary) Hermanson, Chad Henderson, Steve Miraldi, Rico Miraldi, Sam Mills, Vicki Mills, Kimberly Magee-Geib ( Robert), Paul Magee, Peter Magee, Jeff Goellner and Carly Goellner and one brother, Sonny (Florence) Hughes. She is also survived by 16 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

No calling hours will be observed. A private memorial will be held in her honor in December when her extended family can gather and celebrate her life and her favorite holiday.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association, 825 Filmore Ave., Erie, PA 16505 or charity of one's choice. The John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street, is handling arrangements.