Helen P. Humes, 80, of Ocean City, Maryland, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Loving, funny, and endlessly giving, Helen was a woman whose life revolved around caring for others and finding joy in the people she loved most. A devoted mother and grandmother, she took immense pride in her children and grandchildren.  She was dependable, kind, considerate, and always willing to help, Helen was someone you could count on no matter the circumstance. Her sense of humor and warm heart made everyone around her feel welcome and supported.

Helen dedicated much of her working life as a switchboard operator for Verizon, formerly Bell Telephone, where her reliability and kindness shone through every day. In her later years, she found deep fulfillment as a bus aide for Worcester County Schools, a role she truly loved. Helping students with special needs brought her great purpose, and she treated every child with patience, compassion, and care.

Helen will be remembered most for always being there. Whether someone needed help, support, or simply a listening ear, she showed up—without hesitation. She had a special gift for making holidays magical, especially for her grandchildren. From Christmas stockings to Easter egg hunts at her condo in Ocean City, she created traditions and memories that will be cherished forever.

Helen's life was a powerful example of resiliency. Widowed at the age of 50, she worked two jobs to ensure her children could attend college, never once complaining and never backing down. She bravely fought cancer and won and later faced her final battle with MAC lung disease with the same quiet strength and determination that defined her life.

Her greatest joy was attending her grandchildren’s activities. She could always be found cheering from the sidelines at soccer games, track events, softball games, and swim meets—her pride unmistakable. She also loved relaxing with a good movie or comedy, especially favorites like Everybody Loves Raymond and The Golden Girls.

Ocean City held a special place in her heart. She loved summer days on the beach with her family, trying local restaurants, and stopping for ice cream around town. Some of her happiest moments were spent at Fager’s Island, enjoying crab cakes and scallops, sipping an Orange Crush, and watching the sun set over the water.

Her legacy lives on in the love she gave so freely, the strength she modeled, and the countless memories she created. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Helen is predeceased by her parents, John German and Bernice Cappialli, and her husband, Joseph Humes.

She is survived by her daughter, Kristin Wood (Justin) and sons Brian (Kara) and Kevin; and grandchildren, London, Lily, Makenna and Myla; her sisters, Joan German and Jackie Kilkenny, and her brother, John German.  Helen is also survived by her extended family of nieces and nephews.  

Viewing will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 10:00am until 12:00pm at Infant Jesus Parish at St. Margaret's Church, 3rd & Beech, Woodbury Heights.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00pm, followed by interment in Woodbury Memorial Park, West Deptford.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, Hope Lodge, Baltimore, MD at Donate Today | The American Cancer Society