Elizabeth Ann “Bettyanne” Helfenstein

May 10, 1955 - May 7, 2022

Elizabeth Ann “Bettyanne” Helfenstein, a resident of North Fort Myers, FL for the past 34 years, formerly of New Orleans, LA, passed away Saturday, May 7, 2022 in Naples, FL at the age of 66. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, daughter, aunt, and friend.

Bettyanne is survived by her beloved husband of over 35 years, Paul Helfenstein of North Fort Myers, FL; loving daughter, Kaitlin Helfenstein (Paige Coley) of Orlando, FL; as well as four siblings, Susan Johnsson (Erik) of Ambler, PA, Nanci Leonardi (Ralph) of Newark, DE, David Folwell of Mystic, CT, and Bill Folwell of Lacey, WA.

Bettyanne was born May 10, 1955 in Philadelphia, PA to Phillip “Don” and Annice Folwell, now deceased. A generous and kind-hearted soul, she previously attended St. Hilary’s Episcopal Church in Fort Myers and taught Sunday school. She was a Home Health Aide for over 10 years and enjoyed volunteering for numerous causes including the Southwest Florida Symphony Children’s Chorus and Girl Scouts of America.

Bettyanne loved to travel and after leaving Philadelphia lived in many places including California, New Jersey, Alaska, and Louisiana. Paul and Bettyanne met in New Orleans and were married in a French Quarter courtyard on June 21, 1986.

Memorial Services will be held on Friday, May 20, 2022 at 2 PM at St. Hilary’s Episcopal Church, 5011 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901.

Committal Services will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at 2 PM at St. Thomas’ Church, Whitemarsh, 7020 Camp Hill Rd., Fort Washington, PA 19034.

If desired, memorial contributions in memory of Elizabeth Ann Helfenstein may be made to Equality Now, P.O. Box 7160, New York, NY 10008.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

Guestbook

  1. Jessie Beckman May 10, 2022 at 10:04 am

    Bettyanne was one of the sweetest, most loving women I ever had the pleasure of knowing. She opened her home to me many times over the course of my childhood and never made me feel like it was anything less than a joy to have me there. She was a beautiful soul and the world was a better place simply by having her in it. My thoughts are with Kaitlin and Paul, and all of the other family and friends who are now missing her. Love you, Bettyanne.

  2. Nancy Leonardi May 10, 2022 at 10:06 am

    To my wonderful sister I am sad that you have to go on this journey without me but I miss you so much my heart is broken 💔 I know you are in a better place without any pain .I Love you and will miss you so much.Happy Birthday the first without me calling you. I love you

    Love you
    Nanci

  3. Jim Bretkze May 10, 2022 at 11:24 am

    Dear Paul and Kaitlin,
    My heart goes out to your both in this sad time. I was glad to see you mom, and you both, last Christmas in Ft. Myers. My deepest condolences,
    Your cousin

  4. Susan Leo May 10, 2022 at 5:04 pm

    Bettyanne was a dear friend to me for 48 years. She was one of the most thoughtful,kind,loving and generous people I have ever known. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary. She always had a kind word. We shared laughter,good times,sad times and heartbreaking times. We were always there for each other, the way good friends are. Bettyanne will always be in my heart

  5. Gloria Reid May 10, 2022 at 8:38 pm

    My condolences to you and your family. So sorry to hear this.
    ❤️

  6. Carole Ryan May 12, 2022 at 4:35 am

    Bettyanne, we sure did have some fun, with Nanci and your girlfriend that I can’t remember. Going to the Old Latin Casino in Jersey to see Franky Valli and the Four Seasons, going to Wildwood in 76 for Nanci and my graduation week. You were so much fun to be around. It took us about thirty, forty years to get acquainted again and seemed like old times.
    Sorry you didn’t get to meet your nephew (Jeff), but I’m sure you two would have hit it off.
    I hope that you are in heaven, no longer in pain, an Angel now and with other departed family members. You will be sorely missed.🙏💖🌹🎉🕯😢

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