“Helen from Catonsville”, as she was affectionately known by many Baltimore talk radio show listeners, died peacefully on March 29th. She was 101 and lived a life full of fun, family and friends – most of whom she outlived. Born in Fells Point, she was a true Baltimorean – loved crab cakes and beer; going to Pimlico; and playing cards. She raced in the roller derby, enjoyed bowling, and was an avid Oriole fan. From childhood on, she was a dear friend of late Mayor Don Schaefer, with whom she talked regularly. She was born Helen Dardas, was orphaned at the age of three, was then adopted and became Helen Howe, and was raised in west Baltimore. She was an eternal optimist, and, as her father was a prominent bookie, a love of gambling followed her throughout her life – although she rarely won. She enjoyed playing the numbers, the lottery, and bingo at St Bernadine’s, where the family attended services. She is survived by her loving daughter Joan Windsor Kurtz, and husband John; her son Stuart; her granddaughter Jennifer Benson, and her husband Greg; and great grandchildren Travis, Riley and Delaney. She is also survived by relatives and friends Beverly Collins and her sons A.J. and David, and Sharon Merrill and her husband Darrell. Helen was preceded in death by her husbands Robert Windsor and Henry Dill.
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