Helen Beth Kelsey Breckinridge

Helen Beth Kelsey Breckinridge of Farmville, died May 15, 2014 at home. Born August 19, 1934, in Farmville, VA, Helen was the 12th child of Ruby & Philander Kelsey’s 13 children. She graduated from Longwood College and moved to Newport News, VA to teach, where she met her husband Charles Breckinridge. Together, Helen and Charles raised three children and retired to Farmville to be closer to family. Helen is survived by Charles Breckinridge, her loving husband of 55 years, her daughter Beth Rivenbark (Mike) of Newport News, daughter-in-law Amy Breckinridge of Farmville, son Thad Breckinridge of Farmville, 10 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and her siblings Ruth Simpson of Prospect, Carl Kelsey (Sadie) of Farmville, Nancy Williams (Sonny) of Newport News, and sister-in-law Peggy Kelsey of Prospect. She is preceded in death by her son Thomas, and siblings Libby, Franklin, Philander, Milton, Lucile, Jean, Rachel, Becky, and Ray. Helen loved God and was active in many churches throughout her life. She played the piano for Jamestown Presbyterian in Rice, was a member at College Church at Hampden Sydney, active in Presbyterian Women through Hilton Presbyterian in Newport News and Appomattox PE Presbyterian Church in Farmville. Helen loved to garden, especially flowers, and had shelves of thriving African Violets and beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. She spent much of her time quilting, making ceramics, crafting, and crocheting, especially snowflakes. Helen has been missed her last few years as she suffered from Alzheimer's disease, but those closest to her will remember her patience and quick wit, and cherish the memories of time spent together in her garden and sewing room. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.