BARBARA ARMEL

She was born on February 12,1938 a daughter of the late William “Bill” and Stella (Wolfe) Helfrich.

Barbara graduated from Slippery Rock University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. She was a Physical Education teacher at St. Clairsville High School until she and Keith decided to start a growing family.

Barbara had a passion for tennis, and she spent many hours watching and playing. Her dedication to her community was evident through her involvement with the Thoburn United Methodist Church, where she was an active and cherished member of the choir. Her faith and commitment to her church community were constants in her life. She was also a member of the Gardeners Forum in St. Clairsville.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband in 2017 whom she married in 1959, R. Keith Armel; and her siblings, Harry Helfrich, Virginia Young, Thelma Taylor, and Mary Smart.

Surviving Barbara are her beloved children, Randy (Joan) Armel of Spotsylvania, Va., Marcy (Jeff) Tennant of Bridgeport, Oh., Roger (Laura) Armel of Matthews, NC; six grandchildren, Jessica (Justin) Allen, Ryan (Ireland) Armel, Jeffrey Tennant, Jr., Kaitlyn Tennant, Ashley Armel, Olivia Armel; two great-grandchildren, Sam Allen, Hannah Allen; brother, John Helfrich; caregiver, Sherri Holman; her loyal dog, Chelsea; several nieces and nephews; and numerous friends.

The family would like to thank all of the nurses at Stonerise Hospice for their care and compassion.

Friends will be received on Sunday, May 25, from 2:00pm until time of funeral service at 4:00pm at the Thoburn United Methodist Church with Pastor Jeff Croft officiating. There will be a reception immediately following at the church. Final arrangements are at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Thoburn United Methodist Church by visiting TMCFunding .com

Share your thoughts and memories of Barbara with family at carechapel.com