Helen Ann Joseph, a lifelong resident of Farrell, passed away peacefully Wednesday morning, November 22, 2017, in her residence. She was 89.

Mrs. Joseph was born March 10, 1928, a daughter of Joseph and Anna Gondek. She was a 1946 graduate of Farrell High School.

Helen retired 1992 as switchboard operator from the former Shenango Valley Osteopathic Hospital after 28 years of service. She was commended for her heroism for remaining at her post and communicating with local law enforcement while an armed gunman attempted to harm members of the hospital staff.  She was previously employed in the same capacity at AT&T.

Helen was a member of St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, Sharon.

She was also a member of the Polish National Alliance and the Polish Home, Farrell.

Helen enjoyed gardening and she and her husband grew prized tomatoes always sharing with neighbors.    An avid cook she enjoyed creating feasts and handing down her techniques and traditions.  Her greatest joy was keeping her family close and sharing laughter.

Her husband, Thomas A. "Tata" Joseph, whom she married May 12, 1951, passed away December 6, 2014.

Surviving are: two daughters, Paula Gargano, Farrell; and Bonnie Joseph and her husband Norman Hartley, Boston; two sons, Jerry (Jean) Joseph, Pittsburgh; and Tommy Joe (Theresa) Joseph, Cranberry Twp.; five grandchildren, Tori Schuster,  Joni Nicastro, Nick Gargano; Eve and Oliver Joseph; and one great granddaughter, Jolie Nicastro.

In addition to her beloved husband, Helen was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Wanda Costello, two brothers, Walter and Henry Gondek; and a son in law, Bill Gargano.