Sarah Catherine Wilkerson Hellens, retired secretary

Sarah Catherine Wilkerson Hellens, 95, of Harbeson passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 23, 2020, at her daughter’s home in Milton. 

Catherine was born in Georgetown, daughter of the late Eli S. and Rhoda M. (Smith) Wilkerson. Catherine worked as secretary at Milford Ordinance Plant, receptionist at the Beebe Clinic, secretary at Arrow Safety Device, and secretary at Cargill Incorporated. Catherine also served as an active member of Grace Church in Milton where she functioned as secretary for the Sunday school, was a member of the church board, and secretary of the board. Catherine also enjoyed supporting the Grace congregation as a substitute for the children’s Sunday school classes. 

Catherine worked with her husband, Roy, and four children as an integral member of the family farm in Harbeson, raising both crops and animals over the years.  She enjoyed spending time with family hosting many dinners and special events. 

In addition to her parents, Catherine was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, George Roy Hellens; her son-in-law, Reese E. Wilson; and siblings: Reuben Wilkerson, Harley Wilkerson, Harold Wilkerson, Claude Wilkerson, Laura James, Elva Wilkerson and Elizabeth Warrington. 

Catherine is survived by four children: Charlotte A. Wilson, Marlyn L. Warrington and husband Charles “Spark,” Wayne Hellens and wife Carol, and Gregg Hellens and wife Barbara; seven grandchildren: Brian Wilson and wife Miriam, Ruth Ann Reynolds and husband Troy, Kathy Kelly and husband Thomas, Michael Hellens and wife Heather, Sharon Pyle and husband Matthew, Lisa Messick, and Robert Hellens and wife Carrie; as well as 20 great-grandchildren. 

Out of an abundance of caution and in alignment with safety guidelines for COVID-19, a private graveside service will be held for immediate family only. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory can be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. 

Online condolences to the family may be submitted to: www.shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.