Helen G. Alexander died on Sept. 12, 2025, at the Lebanon Veterans Hospital, Lebanon, PA. Born on April 11, 1923, in Hollidaysburg, PA, she was the daughter of Harry H. and Emma G. Miller.
Helen was a retired secretary from Derry Township School District and Hershey Medical Center. She was also a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy WAVES. Helen lived a long and remarkable life, full of love, faith, and curiosity. She was a voracious reader with a deep appreciation for nature and could often be found tending to her garden, hiking with family, or enjoying peaceful days fishing or collecting shells and “precious stones” on the Delaware seashore. Her happiest moments were spent surrounded by loved ones — especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who knew her affectionately as “Grandma Bunny.” She was known for her chocolate chip cookies, famous broccoli casserole, and her never-ending supply of Hershey’s Assorted Miniatures on her countertop.
A devoted member of St. Cecilia’s Parish, Helen cherished her church community and lived her values every day. She was deeply engaged with the world around her — never missing the news, often writing to her representatives, and always ready to discuss current events.
She found joy in simple pleasures and lasting traditions — enjoying time spent in the fresh air, telling stories to and watching “shows” performed by the children, and good conversation shared on her porch swing. Helen was a loyal friend, a loving matriarch, and a steady, smiling presence to those who knew her. Over her 102 years, she witnessed extraordinary changes in the world, meeting each one with resilience, warmth, and her ever-present smile.
Surviving are her daughters, Betty Cek (Tony), of Lebanon, PA, and Mary Twaddell (Harry), of Boyertown, PA; sons, James Alexander, of Enola, PA, and John Alexander (Rose), of Forest Grove, OR; daughter-in-law, Barbara Alexander, of AZ; sister, Shirley Bush, of Ligonier; brother, H. Wayne Miller, of Ocala, FL; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Homer B. Alexander; son, Mark R. Alexander; brothers, Clyde and Robert Miller; and sisters, Eleanor Kromer, Dolores Winter, Margaret Rutter, and Barbara Miller.
On bright days with blue skies and puffy clouds, Helen would often say she wanted to go “cloud hopping.” We hope that now, in Heaven, she’s finally getting to do just that.
In her final act of generosity, Helen’s body was donated to a medical institution to support the education of future doctors. A private burial will take place at Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lebanon Community Library, 125 N. 7th St., Lebanon, PA 17046, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Thompson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. The family welcomes your memories and messages in Thompson Funeral Home’s online guest book at thompsonfuneralhomelebanon.com.
