Helen A. Palmer, Lewes centenarian

Helen A. Palmer, 100, of Lewes, met her final reward during the early hours of Saturday, May 12, 2018, at Delaware Hospice, Millsboro.

A first-generation U.S. citizen, Helen was the fifth of nine children of Josef and Lena Arsukevich (changed to Arnson upon arrival in the U.S.), who immigrated to the U.S. from White Russia near the beginning of the 20th Century. Helen was born April 26, 1918, while mother Lena was visiting friends in Lebanon, Conn. Helen's birth was not recorded until mother and child returned home to Manchester, Conn., May 10, 1918. This later date became her official and celebrated birthday for the remainder of her life.

Of the nine children, only the youngest child, Dottie Fecser, 94, remains.

Helen's husband of 63 years, Frank C, Palmer Jr., preceded her in 2001. Helen and Frank's only child, Walter Palmer (Gwen) reside in Lewes. Grandchildren include Margaux Kaynard (Matthew), Major Geoffrey Palmer, USMC, Jennifer McDonald (Edward) and Heather Roe (Kyle). She was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Jack, Sam, Keegan and Devon.

"The goal was for her to reach 100 years old," said son Walter. "Mom made her own plans only two days following her celebrated' birthday."

Interment will be with her husband at a later date at the Quantico National Cemetery, Triangle, Va.