Helen Haughs Demarest was born July 19, 1926 in Stamford, Conn., the second of two children to Frederick and Clara Morton Haughs. She passed March 4, 2025.
Even though there was a national depression in the country, she and brother Bob were well taken care of.
Following graduation from Stamford High School, she went on to earn her nursing degree (RN) from Stamford Hospital School of Nursing. It had been her passion since the age of 8 to become a nurse.
On New Year’s Eve 1946, Helen met Russell (Russ) Demarest, her husband of 67 years, on a blind date. They raised three children.
She was an active and founding member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Darien, Conn., and was also involved in school activities with her children.
After retirement, Helen and Russ moved to Cape May, where they enjoyed life at “the shore.” She volunteered at the local hospital and was an active member of various women’s groups. She devoted time at Cold Spring Presbyterian Church in Bible studies and served as guide for the historic cemetery there.
The children and grandchildren enjoyed a summer visit each year with Nama and Pop-pop for fun in the sun.
In 2011, Helen and Russ made a move to Columbia, S.C., living at the Wildewood Downs Retirement Community which was a delight. They joined Northeast Presbyterian Church.
Helen is survived by her children: Bonnie Beyerl (Bob dec.), Sally Crush (Jack), Russ (Sandy); five grandchildren: Erica Bennett (Matthew), Melissa Ruggiero (Mark), Tim Beyerl, Brooke Holden (Trent) and Leah Demarest (Jamie); and four great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on July 18th, 2025 the weekend that would have marked her 99th birthday.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Joslin Diabetic Clinic at joslin.org. Memories may be shared at dunbarfuneralhomes.com.
