With love and sadness, we announce the passing of Helen Gonzalez Powers, who left us peacefully on September 18, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born on November 16, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, Helen was the daughter of the late Jose Salustio Gonzalez and Maria Teresa Gonzalez (DeLaRoche). Raised in Brooklyn, Helen was exceptional from an early age. She served as valedictorian at St. Joseph’s Commercial High School, where she was a key member of the debate team (earning the affectionate title of "the Señorita with a rich voice") and an award-winning member of the Journalism Club. Her academic talents earned her a full scholarship to St. Joseph’s College for Women, where she served as Secretary of the Spanish Club and earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish in 1959.

On June 4, 1960, Helen married Walter Anthony Powers, Jr., with whom she built a life centered on family, devotion, and shared pride in their three children. She later dedicated many years of public service to the State of Arizona, retiring from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) in 2000. In 2017, following a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, Helen moved to Virginia to be closer to family, where she was cared for with deep love and dedication throughout her remaining years.

An adventurous spirit at heart, Helen embraced the natural beauty of the Southwest. She proudly hiked the Grand Canyon and treasured her trips to the cool mountains and scenic landscapes of Northern Arizona, which provided a favorite escape from the hot Phoenix summers. Above all else, Helen cherished her family. She delighted in her role as a grandmother and always looked forward to trips back home to New York to visit her beloved sisters and extended family.

Helen is survived by her children, Ann Marie Verity and her husband Michael, Carolyn Schatzer and her husband Todd, and Paul Powers; her grandchildren, Cristos Apostolakis, Corrado Apostolakis, Annaleah Boles, and Haley Plamp; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Marie "Josie" Campbell and Ana Thomas-Kristensen.

Blessed by the lifelong love of her family and friends, Helen’s legacy of intelligence, strength, and warmth will be remembered by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Helen are encouraged to share a favorite memory or make a donation in her memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

A celebration of Helen’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Family and friends are welcome to gather at the home of her daughter Carolyn from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM to share memories, honor her life, and support one another.