Helen E. Torelli

Helen Elizabeth Torelli (Morgan) passed away peacefully on January 13, 2022. Helen, the oldest of eight, was born in Philadelphia, PA in 1933 and spent the first 10 years of her life in Clifton Heights, PA. Her parents moved to the Essington area in 1943 as both of her parents were employed by Sun Ship to help with the war effort. Helen graduated from Ridley High School in 1951 and returned to Clifton Heights in 1954, where shortly thereafter, she met the love of her life, Tony Torelli. Helen and Tony were married in 1957 and raised 5 children in their modest 1,100 square foot home on Oak Avenue. Life with the Torellis was always about family. Every Sunday, Helen would prepare a traditional Italian meal of spaghetti and meatballs and would have up to 25 people there (guests always welcome). Of course, things stopped at 4pm for happy hour, Helen with her glass of paisano wine and Tony with his Manhattan. Helen was a loving mom and wife and taught her family the importance of empathy and treating everyone with respect. Helen was a great listener and was always truly happy for other peoples’ success. She never shied away from trying new things and embracing current trends. She loved to dance, travel, and was a talented artist. She was the most amazing cook and a talented seamstress. She joined the YMCA in her 60s and was a regular there well into her 80s. Helen organized an annual luncheon at the Y, which became one of the most sought after invitations of the year. Helen passed along family news and events faster than the internet and was the glue that held her family together. In the era of powerful and inspirational women, there was no one more inspirational than Helen. We honor Helen by being great people, loving fiercely, and truly living life to the fullest. Helen is survived by her children: Elizabeth, aka Betty Lou (Dave) Douglas, Eileen (Jack) Dowrick, Anthony (Desiree) Torelli, Joe (Theresa) Torelli, and Michele (Keith) Dowling, in addition to 12 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters Frances Brosko and Diane Ciavarelli, and brother George Morgan. She was predeceased by her husband, Tony (2019), parents George and Helen Morgan, brother Billy, and sisters Mary Lou, Patsy, and Margaret. Visitation: Thursday 9:30 am Holy Cross Church 651 E. Springfield Rd. Springfield, PA 19064. Funeral Mass: Thursday 10:30 am at Holy Cross Church Interment: SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, or the Clifton Heights Police Vest Fund, 30 S. Springfield Road, Clifton Heights, PA 19018.

Helen E. Torelli

August 25, 1933 - January 13, 2022