Obituary

Helen Delores Lownes, 78, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on July 8, 2026, in North Chesterfield, Virginia.

She was born on November 1, 1947, in Youngstown, Ohio to Russell and Helen Schaefer.

Helen married her husband Phillip in Columbia, South Carolina on September 29, 1973 and the couple went on to have one son together, Phillip Matthew Lownes.

Helen was better known by Grandma to her loved ones, family, neighbors, friends, and honorary grandchildren. Her and Phil always had room in the home for anyone who may need some loving grandparents. Helen loved crocheting, knitting, and bringing her husband along for Elton John and Neil Diamond concerts. Before becoming grandma, she spent her time out on the road with her brothers riding motorcycles, or white-water rafting with Phil.  Her charm, heart, and instant acceptance of everyone she met will be remembered dearly and missed by all.

Helen is survived by her husband of 53 years, Phillip Lownes, her son Phillip (Katheryn) Lownes, nine grandchildren; Ryan, Alexis, Samuel, Micah, Alena, Jaxton, Ellie, Tatum, and Kullen, one great-grandchild, Willow Hollingsworth, sister Nora, brothers Paul, John, and Joe, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents, brother Russell, and her sister Elsie.

A Visitation for Helen will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 3:00 – 5:00 PM at Morrissett Funeral and Cremation Service, 6500 Iron Bridge Road, North Chesterfield, Virginia, 23234. She will be laid to rest at Bermuda Memorial Park at a later date.