Suffield Obituary: Helen Rookey, 90

Helen P. Rookey (Yia Yia), 90, lifelong resident of Suffield, beloved wife of Rockwell E. Rookey, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 25, 2016 at home surrounded by her family.

She was born on December 5, 1925, in Suffield, a daughter of the late Theodore and Evangeline (Poulopouos) Papafil. Helen was a member of St. Luke's Greek Orthodox Church, the former Saint Nicholas Philoptochos, and the Romeo and Juliet's of St. Luke's. She was also a member of the Enfield American Legion Post 80 and was the Past President of the Women's Auxiliary.

In addition to her husband Rockwell, she is survived by her four children, Rockwell T. Rookey and his partner Marcia Hughes of East Windsor, Ronald J. Rookey and his wife Marcy D. of Suffield, Rodney A. Rookey of Suffield and Evangeline R. Rookey and her partner Karl Christian of West Suffield; four grandchildren, Crista, Ralle, Alexandra, and Ryan; and special nephews Theodore Papafil of Norfolk, VA and Brian Stephenson in New Orleans. She was predeceased by two brothers Alexander and Nicholas Papafil.

Relatives and friends may join the family for calling hours on Monday, June 27, 2016 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Road, Enfield. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Luke's Greek Orthodox Church, 400 Prospect Street, East Longmeadow, MA (please meet at church). Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Suffield.

Memorial donations in Helen's memory may be made to St. Luke's Greek Orthodox Church, 400 Prospect Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028.