Helen Louise Railsback

88, passed away peacefully on Nov 9, 2015, following a brief illness. Helen was born on January 6, 1927, in rural Missouri. Her Grandfather impressed upon her at an early age that “the world extends far beyond the gravel road at the end of the driveway”. He inspired her to be diligent and confident. Upon graduation from Hamilton High School in 1945, Helen moved to Kansas City. Armed with only $13 to her name she landed a job at an insurance agency and worked her way through business school at night.

She later moved to Florida but did not find the climate outside or in the workplace to her liking. It was not until she relocated to San Francisco in 1958 that she found a city and work environment she absolutely loved. Helen was an administrative secretary for Morris Doyle of the law firm McCutchen, Doyle, Brown & Enersen where her skills were finally recognized and appreciated.

Helen worked tirelessly, but when she did find spare time she enjoyed genealogy, fine arts, and fashion. In fact, she had designed and hand sewn most of her wardrobe. For Helen it was her work she loved most, and it was a marriage that lasted 49 years. She took pride in her work and strived for perfection. Helen retired in 2007 at the age of 79.

Helen was very frugal, her only true indulgence was giving. She cared deeply about her family and generously gave out of love and without expectation. Her legacy is far-reaching but the very best she left behind was her example. She was independent, adventurous and courageous.

Helen was never much on goodbyes. Instead of solong, farewell or goodbye, it was always Ta-Daa!! as if she had just completed a successful magic trick. So one last time we’d like to say Ta-Daa!! Aunt Helen Ta-Daa!!