Helen J. Beldecos, known to many as "Nitsa", age 87, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2024.  Helen was born in Chester, Pennsylvania and was the daughter of the late Demetrios and Cleopatra Beldecos. She lived in Springfield, Pennsylvania for most of her life.  Helen is predeceased by her sister and best friend Mary J. Beldecos.  She will be dearly missed by countless cousins, godchildren, extended family members, lifelong friends, and loving caregivers.

Helen embarked on her educational journey at Chester High School, where she graduated in 1954. Driven by her passion for learning, Helen pursued higher education at Drexel University (BA) and Temple University (MA). As a dedicated lifelong learner, she pursued additional graduate credits at the University of Pennsylvania.

Helen started her professional career as a high school teacher at her alma mater, Chester High School. She continued her career as a Business teacher at Springfield High School, where she served as head of the Business department. Helen was a passionate teacher who was committed to putting her students first.

Helen, a devoted member of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Media, Pennsylvania (formerly located in Chester, Pennsylvania), began singing with the St. George Liturgical Choir at age 10, eventually serving as choir director and organist for 64 years. She delighted in assisting Sunday school with Christmas pageant music and cherished attending yearly liturgical choir conferences with her sister Mary and dear friends.

Helen was elected President of the St. George Parish Council in 1981, taught Sunday school, was a member of the CHION Society and a lifelong member of the Philoptochos Society where she held various officer positions. She selflessly devoted countless hours to serve in any capacity required, demonstrating her boundless commitment to others. In addition to her leadership to the church community, she could always be found working tirelessly in the kitchen preparing the many Greek delights and desserts for the annual Greek Food Festival.  In 2010, Helen was honored by the Metropolis of New Jersey for her contribution to the Philanthropic Ministries of the Philoptochos Society of St. George where she was a symbol of selfless service and devotion.

Helen continued to cultivate her Philanthropic values when she was initiated into the Daughters of Penelope Laodice #246 on February 6, 1955.  Over the years, she held various officer positions including Maids of Athena Advisor, Chapter President, Vice President, and Treasurer. At the district level, she served as Secretary, Treasurer, Convention Secretary and Convention Chairperson as well as serving the Daughters of Penelope Foundation, Inc. on their Board and as Treasurer. Helen ascended to higher responsibilities within the Grand Lodge, serving in various officer positions including Grand Lodge Governor, Grand Secretary, and Grand Vice President. Her remarkable journey culminated in her election to the highest office of Grand President from 1970-1972 at the 48th Supreme Convention in Athens, Greece.

Throughout her life, Helen dedicated her time and talents to assist her students, philanthropic endeavors, and various functions, always extending a helping hand to others. She was an active member of organizations including the Hellenic University Club of Philadelphia, Springfield Education Association, Delaware County Historical Society, and National Education Association, among others. Widely regarded, Helen embodied Hellenistic intelligence, amiability, and loyalty; always with a gentle and kind-hearted demeanor that touched the lives of many.

Helen was always on the move, even in her free time. She enjoyed Byzantine concerts, playing the organ and piano, musical concerts and shows, singing, dancing, sewing and watching sports.  Her genuine love for music was reflected through her active involvement in numerous theater productions for the Swarthmore Players Club, Rose Valley Chorus and church talent shows. Whether behind or in front of the footlights, Helen felt at home, showcasing her true passion for the performing arts.

Helen's most cherished times were spent with her sister Mary, family, friends and her sisters of the heart, Marion, Ruth, and Calliope Varlan. She exemplified an Orthodox Christian who lived everyday rooted in Christ and her faith.

Helen, cherished by all who knew her, embodied courage, passion, zeal, fearlessness, and enthusiasm, her eyes shining brightly and her smile at its happiest, ensuring she will forever remain in our hearts.

Funeral Service 11:00 am Monday, February 19, 2024 at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 30 East Forge Road, Media, PA where relatives and friends may call 10:00 am - 11:00 am. Burial will be at Chester Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the St. George Greek Orthodox Church Memorial Building Fund at the above address.