Harry N. Helms, Jr., 95, of Downingtown, PA, passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at Freedom Village of West Brandywine. Harry was the son of the late Harry N. Helms, Sr. and Margaret R. Magee, and loving husband to Jeanne F. Helms (nee Smyth) for 64 years until her passing in 2013.

Harry graduated from West Catholic High School in Philadelphia and enlisted in the United States Army in 1943. As a member of the 94th Infantry Division, he proudly served in St. Nazaire, France during World War II.
After returning to civilian life, Harry graduated from Villanova University and later went on to earn his Master's in Education from Temple University. In 1949, Harry married the love of his life, Jeanne Smyth, and they began their 64 year journey together, settling down in the wilds of Downingtown, PA, to raise a family.

Harry is remembered by countless students as principal of two Delaware County Vo-tech schools, longtime SS. Philip and James basketball coach, and advisor for many Science Olympiad competitions.

After his retirement, Harry and Jeanne traveled the world together and with their beloved "DOZI" gang.

A dedicated volunteer, Harry served for 20 years on the board of the Downingtown Area Historical Society and was an active member of the American Legion in West Chester. He was particularly committed to his own 94th Infantry, serving as secretary/treasurer and contributing to the passing of the torch to new generations of veterans and their families.

Harry is survived by his children; Mark Helms (Bobbi), Maureen Wenck (Taylor), Marylou Starner (Bob), Margie Helms, and Madelyn Mueller (Steve), as well as 12 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, Jeanne, Harry is preceded in death by his brother, John Helms, and son, Michael Helms.

Due to COVID-19, Harry's services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Harry's honor can be made to the Exchange Club Family Center, 310 N. Matlack St., West Chester, PA.

John G. Gates, II, 94

July 2, 1925 - May 29, 2020

John George Gates II, age 94, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 29th, after a brief stay at Hospice and Community Care in Mount Joy. He was the son of the late John George Gates and Barbara Mineur Gates. John was the loving husband of the late Doris Thatcher Gates, who passed away on February 12, 2015, after 66 years of marriage.

Born in Lancaster, John was a World War II veteran who served in the 94th Infantry Division. After his military service he attended Franklin and Marshall College and enjoyed a long and successful career as a professional photographer and portrait artist. Throughout his life, John was active in the creative and performing arts and enjoyed playing tennis, traveling, and boating on the Susquehanna River with Doris and the family. John enjoyed sharing his strong singing voice in the First Presbyterian Church choir, and he was beloved for his sparkling sense of humor, creativity, outgoing nature, and generosity.

John is survived by his children, Cynthia L. Gates and John G. Gates III. He is also survived by five grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter, Debra Sadler.

Services for John will be private. Interment will be at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery with Doris.