Helen M. Gilbert

Helen was born Oct. 17, 1925, in Rochester, N.Y., the first member of her family to be born outside the United Kingdom, and was one of four children of the late Lance and Dorothy Zavitz.

Beginning with a career in journalism, her early years included being a recreation director; teaching seminars in interior design and color coordination; coaching a volleyball team; and working as a restoration artist restoring oil paintings, sculptures, and antiques. During a teaching shortage, she was accredited to teach elementary physical education.

Helen’s artistic side flourished as she then filled her years teaching painting and restoration in all mediums. Her hands-on approach to decorating was apparent in many area homes, banks, hotels, churches, restaurants, and the library. She enjoyed participating in numerous area fund raisers, was named volunteer of the year by the Chautauqua County Senior Citizens, and was recognized by the City of Jamestown for single-handedly restoring the Crystal Ballroom. Helen was also a longtime member of the Chautauqua Choir, as well as Zion Covenant Church. Her later years were spent painting with fabric and thread, quilting and creating many beautiful and award-winning pieces of art.

Helen is survived by three children: Michael (MarySusan) Gilbert of Fredonia, N.Y., Kel-Lee (Tom) Rauch of Peachtree City, Ga., and Koree-An Gilbert of Atlanta, Ga.; one grandchild: Meghan (Dan) Gilbert; five great-grandchildren: Josi, Lilah, Dylan, Fionn, and Clementine; and many, many friends.

Along with her husband Bob, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Joy Michael and Muriel Shavchuck, and a brother, John Zavitz.

Helen’s wishes were to participate in the University of Buffalo’s Anatomical Gift Program.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 11, 2025, at Zion Covenant Church.

The family suggests memorials be made to Chautauqua Institution.

To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.lindfuneralhome.com.