Obituary of Helen G. Meyer

Helen G. Meyer, 91, a life-long resident of Cortland, died February 21, 2011, at Blake Medical Center in Bradenton, FL, after a brief illness. Mrs. Meyer was a winter resident in Bradenton for over 25 years.Mrs. Meyer was a member of the first class formed at St Mays School and was a member of its third graduating class. She was a 1940 graduate of SUNY Cortland and began her career as an elementary school teacher in Binghamton. She later taught for over 25 years in the Cortland Public Schools until her retirement in 1983. Helen enjoyed many friends through travel, arts, and entertainment. An avid sports fan and Notre Dame supporter, she was active in many organizations and clubs including the SUNY Cortland Alumni Association and Alpha Sig sorority, New York State Retired Teachers, Catholic Daughters of America Court Cortland (past regent), St. Marys Golden Agers, YWCA bridge group, AAUW, Fortnightly, Commwolei, Twentieth Century Club, and the Red Hat Society. She served regularly with the Cortland area tourist information services and had been a long-time volunteer at Cortland Memorial Hospital.Helen was predeceased by her husband Leo Meyer and sister Barbara Jean Newton. She is survived by her sons John, James (Kathleen), and Thomas (Pamela), five grandchildren, (Brendan, Emily, Molly, Katy, and Amy), seven great-grandchildren (Will, Daniel, Laura, Daisy, Averly, Evan, and Charlie), and several nieces and nephews.Calling hours will be Sunday, February 27 from 3 to 7 PM at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home, 9 Lincoln Ave. in Cortland. A prayer service will be Monday, February 28, at 9:30 AM at the funeral home, followed by the funeral Mass at 10 AM at St. Marys Church, Cortland. Burial will follow at St. Marys Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Marys School, 61 North Main St., Cortland, would be greatly appreciated. My Great Aunt Helen was truly someone to admire. She lived each day to the fullest and dedicated her time and talent to numerous organizations throughout her life. She will be dearly missed by the countless lives she touched over the years. My sincerest condolences to her 3 sons, 2 daughter-in-laws, 5 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. On behalf of the YWCA of Cortland our deepest condolences to Helen's family. She was a long-time member and we enjoyed her wit and wisdom. She will be missed. Kathy McMahon pe your condolence here...I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Your mother was a wonderful, wonderful person. I remember her as my cub scout den leader and what great fun we had together with her. She lived her life to the hilt and I always admired her. I will always be grateful for her influence on my life. Paul Jennings To John and family, Very sorry to hear of your mother's passing. When we were classmates, our parents watched us, encouraged us and were proud of our accomplishents. They guided us, as best they knew. They showed the way for us, watched patiently and waited. I believe they still do. Carl Moses