Helen V. Humphreys

We are deeply saddened to announce, Helen V. (Harrigle) Humphreys, also affectionately known by those who loved her as “The Duchess of Edgely”, has passed away on March 28, 2026.

She was born in Philadelphia, PA, and was a longtime resident of Hulmeville and Edgely. Helen was the daughter of the late Elmer and Helen (Ross) Harrigle, also the adopted daughter of the late Charles H. Stewart, and loving wife to the late James B. Humphreys.

Helen’s second home in Townsend Inlet was a world of sand, surf, and lifelong connections. Some of her very first steps were taken on those shores, and she grew up to be a sun-kissed "belle of the ball." Her summers were defined by games of pinochle, sunset happy hours, and a growing circle of friends. To Helen, paradise was simple: a beach chair, a bottle of Sea & Ski, and the cherished company found on the 86th Street beach.

She attended Mastbaum where she developed enduring friendships with her AEX Sorority Sisters. Helen built a successful career in the printing industry as an Administrative Assistant with the Goodway Group. She was a member of Middletown Township Country Golf Club and even at her age of 85, she continued to 'shoot better than her age,' proving that her drive and spirit were as sharp as ever. Together with her husband, Jim, and their dear friends, Bruce and Norma, they explored six continents, skipping only Antarctica because it was simply too cold and remote.

Helen built a legacy defined by her unwavering devotion to others and an open-door policy that turned a community of acquaintances into a family. She lived her entire life surrounded by people from every imaginable walk of life, treating each person she met with the same profound kindness, compassion, and love. She and her beloved husband, Jim, created a home that served as a sanctuary for many.

Her maternal heart knew no bounds; she claimed the world as her family, offering guidance, a listening ear, and a home that belonged to everyone. She was a woman of deep compassion, and a firm believer that most of life’s burdens could be lightened by a good laugh and a perfectly poured vodka and tonic. If she liked you, she’d make you one; if she really liked you, she would make it a double.

She will be truly missed by her family and countless friends—especially her wonderful girlfriends who were the heartbeat of her social life—and her extended family. She also leaves behind her faithful companion, her cat Bella, who by her side reigned over the Edgely Estate.

Helen is now reunited with her dear Jim in Heaven, where she is undoubtedly catching him up on all the neighborhood news. While she has moved on to her next great chapter, she leaves behind a vast, eclectic family on earth who are all infinitely better for having been pulled into her radiant orbit.

Helen’s viewing will be April 7, 2026, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm followed by a service at Tomlinson Funeral Home, 2207 Bristol Pike, Bensalem, PA 19020. The Interment will be held 9:30am on April 8, 2026 at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Road, Newtown, PA 18940.

In Helen’s honor, we ask that you make a donation to the Washington Crossings Wreaths for Veterans, P.O. Box 731, Langhorne, PA 19047 or perform an unexpected act of kindness then raise a glass to a life exceptionally well-lived.