Helen J. Andrew, 95, of Whitehall, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025, in Grand Haven, at the Robbinswood Nursing Facility, after complications from hip surgery and numerous other health issues.

She was born April 19, 1929, along with her twin sister, Elenor, to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Barbara (Stephan) Sheridan. She was the youngest of seven children and the last remaining family member. After the tragic death of her father when she was only two years old, she grew up on the family farm in Streator, Illinois, during the hard years of the Depression and World War II. From that she learned about hard work, character, and sacrifice. In 1947, she graduated from Streator High School but she was already in the workforce where she was employed in a variety of jobs. Shortly thereafter, she relocated to Muskegon, to attend Cosmetology School.

On April 22, 1950, she was united in marriage to Jesse W. Andrew, of Muskegon, at her home parish of St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Streator, and from there took up residency in Muskegon. From that time onward she zealously committed herself towards being a full-time homemaker and mother.

Helen was proud of her Irish Heritage, her family roots, and was a deeply traditional woman who believed in strong family ties and keeping in touch with her siblings. She loved to get together especially with her older sister Lucille Luick, who also lived in Muskegon. Helen loved to go on picnics, attend weddings or anniversary celebrations, and most importantly the annual Sheridan Family Reunion. She was able to attend many of these social functions until her health started failing a few years ago. Helen loved to take vacations and felt blessed to visit the Caribbean, Hawaii, but most of all Las Vegas and play at the casinos there. She loved the casinos in Michigan as well. At one time, she was a member of a Bowling Team as well as one of the crew for the North Muskegon VFW Tuesday Night Bingo Circle, but she would have preferred playing instead.

Helen enjoyed flowers and watching birds and squirrels in the yard. She was a faithful long-time member of St. James Catholic Church in Montague and was thoroughly committed to her faith. Nobody could make potato salad, potato soup, or spaghetti, as well as Helen. She had pages and pages of recipes and kept her family and friends alike well fed. Helen demonstrated her unconditional love through acts of caring and kindness. She truly believed family was everything. Helen was always there for family in time of need. Helen's family thanks her for taking care of them, and for being loving and caring, through good times and bad. She will always be remembered.

Helen is survived by: sons, Peter (Montague, MI), and Thomas (Castle Pine, CO); daughter, Lisa Harris (Whitehall, MI); and son, Lee (Whitehall, MI); grandchildren, Jacob Harris (Grand Rapids, MI), Riley Andrew (Covington, KY), and Jessica Harris (Bozeman, MT); sister-in-law; Shannon Andrew (Muskegon, MI); and numerous nieces and nephews in Illinois and other parts of the country.

Helen was preceded in death by: husband, Jesse W. Andrew (1991); son, Timothy (1983); parents, Joseph Sheridan (1931) and Barbara Sheridan (1961); special niece who served as caretaker until her own death, Luanne Luick (2023); siblings, Dolores Rawls (Peoria, IL), Lucille Luick (Muskegon, MI), Joseph Sheridan (Streator, IL), Rita Korstick (Aurora, IL), James Sheridan (Streator, IL) and Elenor Gallick (twin sister) (Streator, IL).

A special mention of thanks to the staff of Robbinswood Grand Haven, particularly Sonja and Rachael, for their excellent care.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Saturday, January 18, 2025, at St. James Catholic Church, 5149 Dowling St, Montague, MI 49437, with Reverend Norman Droski presiding, and visitation being held from 10:00 AM until time of Mass. Following the conclusion of Mass, the family asks that you join them for a time of food and fellowship at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Harbor Hospice.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com