Jean Helm, 78, Delco community activist

Jean Catherine Helm, a political and community leader in Springfield, Delaware County, died Sunday.

She was 78 and had lived in Springfield for more than 50 years.

The former Jean Adelsberger was a Republican committeewoman, a founding member of the original Proper Land Use in Springfield (PLUS), a watchdog development organization, and a booster for numerous parent/school groups.

Jean was also a member of Collenbrook United Church and the Springfield Swim Club.

She reveled in being a wife, mother and grandmother, enjoyed the Jersey shore, reading, traveling and working in her yard.

"She was an enthusiastic supporter of her sons' and grandsons' sports team, while encouraging academic and artistic pursuits as well," her family said.

Jean grew up in Baltimore, where she was a star field-hockey and basketball player at Mount Saint Agnes High School. She always looked forward to reunions with her classmates.

Her late husband was Dean Tunnell Helm. She is survived by three sons, Ebe Walter Helm II, Dean T. Helm Jr. and Douglas L. Helm; a daughter, Julia B. Helm, and two grandsons.

Services: Memorial service 1 p.m. Saturday at the D'Anjolell Memorial Home of Broomall, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall.

Donations may be made to Collenbrook United Church, 5290 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill PA 19026. *

- John F. Morrison