Helen R. Kelly

Helen Roberts Kelly, age 89, of Catherine Court Apartments in Montour Falls, NY, went home to be with the Lord on July 2, 2026, after a brief illness at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, NY.

Born on March 18, 1937, in Hillburn, NY, Helen was the daughter of Daniel Francis and Elsie Ayers. When her family later moved to Watkins Glen, she met Stanley E. Roberts — and discovered they shared the same birthday. Helen and Stan were married in August 1957 and built a life together in Rock Stream, NY, until his passing in 1981.

In June 1993, Helen married Charles E. “Pete” Kelly. Together they shared many happy years until Pete’s passing in April 2017.

Helen worked over the years at Seneca Foods in Dundee, NY, Isley Hardware in Watkins Glen, NY, and Montour Pharmacy in Montour Falls, NY. She was also affectionately known as the “Avon Lady” and spent many years working in the vineyards while raising her children. No matter where she worked or whom she met, Helen was known for her kindness, warmth, and genuine love for people.

Helen was predeceased by her parents; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Howard and Frances Ayers and Harold and Marian Ayers; her infant sister, Evangeline Ayers; her sister-in-law, Geraldine Ayers; her brother- and sister-in-law, Milo and Shirley Roberts; her brother-in-law Keith Roberts; her brother- and sister-in-law, George and Ellen Goltry; her brother- and sister-in-law, Don and Priscilla Kelly; her stepdaughter, Dawn Hendrix; several beloved nieces, nephews and extended family members; and her faithful four-legged companion, Winston.

She is survived by her son, Marty (Peggy) Roberts; her daughter, Marlita (Peter) Schreurs; her stepson, Vic (Mary) Kelly; her grandchildren, Ashley (Honorio) Borba and their children, Nick and Lily; Sarah (Guy) Robinson and their son, Mack; Olivia Schreurs; and Emily Schreurs; brother, Daniel F. Ayers, Jr.; sister-in-law, Penny Roberts; along with numerous wonderful nieces, nephews and extended family members; her Catherine Court family; and dear friends Sandy Monroe, Liz Lawton, and Mary Marlatt.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Cayuga Medical Center for the care and compassion shown to Helen in her final days.

Helen will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend whose kindness touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her gentle spirit, caring heart, and love for family and friends will be deeply missed.

In keeping with Helen’s wishes, a private graveside service will be held at Pleasant View Cemetery, in Reading Center, NY, at the family’s convenience. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen’s memory to the Humane Society of Schuyler County.