Helen Florence Stormes (née Klein), of Laurel Lake, NJ, passed away after a brief illness surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, service, and humor that will long be remembered by all who were lucky enough to know her.

Born in Philadelphia on October 25, 1957, Helen was the daughter of Helen Florence Klein (née Smosny) and sister to Patricia Klein and Joseph Klein Jr.

On June 24, 1978, Helen married the love of her life, Russell Joseph Stormes. Together they built a home in Laurel Lake, NJ, where they raised their family, planted roots in the community, and welcomed countless friends who quickly became family.

Helen was a devoted mother to two children. She was the proud mother of Karen Rivera (née Stormes), who married Mackie Rivera. Together they welcomed one son, Caleb Rivera, and two cherished bonus children, Liam and Aidan, whom Helen loved deeply. Helen was also the mother of Eric Stormes, born December 9, 1983. The loss of Eric on January 29, 2023, was devastating to Helen, and she carried her love and grief for him with her every single day. She also leaves behind an extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and many others who will miss her.

Helen’s heart was big enough to hold many, including Kendra Carter and Mary Harrar, who were lovingly considered daughters in every way that mattered.

A proud graduate of Williamstown High School, Class of 1976, Helen possessed a strong work ethic from an early age and worked full-time throughout her life. She began her career as a glass decorator at Decora in the 1970s, later working at Duralith in Millville. She then spent many years as a newspaper carrier until her retirement. From 2024–2025, Helen worked as a substitute teacher at Fairfield School, where she found great joy working with the staff and children.
Later in life, Helen pursued higher education and earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Columbia Southern University.

Helen was deeply committed to her community. She was active in the PTA, served as a Girl Scout Troop Leader when the children were in school, and in 2008, she and her husband founded the Commercial Township Community Food Pantry, which continues to serve the community today.

Known for her warm heart, sharp wit, and unmistakable sense of humor, Helen will be remembered for her generosity, her laughter, and her famous phrase, “I told you so.”

As a final tribute to her spirit of giving, Helen was a donor with the Gift of Life program, allowing her legacy to continue through helping others.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026. A closed casket viewing will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Christy Funeral Home 11 W. Broad St, Millville, NJ followed by a short non-denominational service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the Cumberland County Veterans Cemetery, 136 Trench Road, Bridgeton, NJ. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Gift of Life Donor Program, 401 North 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123, or online at www.donors1.org/give. Memories of Helen and condolences for her family may be share on her tribute wall.

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