Jean Marie Helmbrecht

It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the passing of Jean Marie Helmbrecht.

Jeannie was born at Salem Hospital on January 18th, 1950 and passed away suddenly on February 4th, 2025 at her mother’s residence. She is survived by her mother, Marie “Betty” Touchstone; her loving sister, Carol Touchstone; daughters, Natalie Helmbrecht and Heidi Becht; her son in law, Bill Becht; grandchildren, Shane Michael, Madeline Marie and Benjamin John. Jeanie is predeceased by her husband and teenage sweetheart, John Helmbrecht; her father, Carl “Gene” Touchstone; and her in-laws, Robert “Jiggs” and Florence Helmbrecht.

As a child, Jeannie was nicknamed “Smiley” for her happy, cheerful disposition. She enjoyed her teen years babysitting, being a candy striper, cheerleading for the Salem Rams and serving as Vice President of her Senior class. After graduating from Salem High School in 1968, Jeanie went to Glassboro State to pursue her passion for teaching and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. She married the love of her life, John in January 1971. Jeannie was a Substitute Elementary Teacher at John Fenwick School for over 30 years while raising her daughters Natalie and Heidi. Jeannie was always encircled by people she loved including her aunts, uncles and many cousins, her lifetime forever friend, Joann Mathis and countless hours in the shop with her close friend, Carmen Vandewall. She was an avid reader, loved planning her flower gardens, and being “Grandma”. She enjoyed lunch dates with her mother at Graystone Cafe and Java Dog Cafe where they were always treated like family.

Jeannie was known best for her smile and her giggle. She was sweet and welcoming to all who crossed her path. She was selfless, compassionate and the ultimate caregiver. Her love was truly unconditional. She will forever be missed by those who loved her dearly.

No immediate services are planned at this time. Her ashes will be united with John’s and buried at Lawnside Cemetery in Woodstown. Burial arrangements and celebration of life gathering to be announced at a later date. 
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jean Marie Helmbrecht, please visit our floral store.