Helen Elizabeth Parasmo

Helen Elizabeth Parasmo (née Andrione), 97, of Washington Township, NJ, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 4, 2025, in the home she loved — the same home where she raised her family for over 60 years.

Born on April 23, 1928, in Hershey, PA, she was a true and proud Taurus—steadfast, loyal, strong-willed, and full of warmth. Helen was the daughter of the late Italian immigrants Carlo and Josephine Simione Andrione. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Michael Parasmo, and her brother, Louis J. Andrione.

She was the devoted mother of Michael Parasmo (Fei) of Mays Landing and Pamela Fasolino (Stephen) of Washington Township; loving grandmother of Elizabeth (Beth) Parasmo, Steven Parasmo (Inna), Mark Kiker (Joanna), Christopher Fasolino (Kristin), and Maria Fasolino (Mike); and cherished great-grandmother of Katrina, Amelia, Marco, Gianni, Abigail, and Coralie. Helen was blessed with many dear friends throughout her life—both past and present—and was surrounded by wonderful, caring neighbors.

Proudly raised in Hershey, she worked at the Hershey Factory in her younger years and carried her love for Hershey chocolate with her always. She met the love of her life, Michael Parasmo, in Hershey, and after a brief time in Philadelphia, they settled in Washington Township in what would become her forever home. There, they raised their two children, Michael and Pamela. Over the years, Helen held many jobs, but she was especially beloved as a lunch lady at Washington Township High School, where she was known for her lively personality—and for slipping kids a little extra food on their trays.

Affectionately nicknamed “Spunky” by her granddaughter Beth, Helen embodied the name in every way. Her unmatched work ethic, perfectly kept home and lawn, bold personality, and impeccable sense of style—especially her signature leopard print—made her unforgettable. She had strong opinions and made sure they were heard, carrying herself with a fierceness and dignity that was both endearing and memorable. She was never unnoticed, nor could she ever be forgotten; she filled every room with laughter, energy, and often dancing. A true spitfire, she was quick-witted, full of love, and always ready for fun. She loved going out dancing with friends and playing at the casinos in Atlantic City. Her personality was as vibrant as her beautiful signature red hair. She was fearless and unapologetically herself. She took pride in her home, herself, and her family.

Helen found her greatest joy in being with her family. She loved cooking, especially during the holidays, when everyone gathered around her table to enjoy Italian wedding soup, artichokes, manicotti, and countless other dishes made with love. Her love for her family—especially her two children, Michael and Pammy—was boundless, and she cherished her children-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as beautiful extensions of that love.

Helen was the heart and matriarch of her family, known and loved as Mom, Nanny, Great-Grandmom, Helen, and Spunky. A one-of-a-kind presence, she will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.