Brigitte Helliar

Brigitte Helliar, 96, of Aliquippa, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on July 8, 1929, in Mecklenburg, Germany. A registered nurse by profession, Brigitte dedicated her life to the care of others, working with the American Red Cross and later at the Beaver County Geriatric Center. Her nurturing spirit, warm heart, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Brigitte was a longtime member of Mt. Carmel Presbyterian Church, where she also joyfully sang in the church choir. Music was one of her many passions — she loved classical music and lent her voice to several choirs throughout her life. She was also a proud volunteer usher at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh, where she supported the performing arts with great enthusiasm.

A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Brigitte found joy and peace in hiking and gardening. She was an active member of the Gladiolus Society and cultivated a garden that bloomed as vibrantly as her spirit. She was also a talented homemaker who made her own preserves, and she was especially known for her skill in knitting, crocheting, and quilting.

Brigitte had a deep love for travel, and in retirement, she fulfilled her dream of exploring the world — with Germany remaining closest to her heart for the dear friends and family she visited there. Her home was always open and welcoming, a haven of warmth, laughter, music, and kindness. 

In addition to her parents, Brigitte was preceded in death by her husband, Norman “Bud” Helliar, Jr., and her siblings. She is survived by her three sons, Robert Helliar and his wife Susan; David Helliar and his wife Stephanie; and Mark Helliar and his wife Karen; and by five grandchildren, Joseph Helliar, Jacob Helliar, Brandon Helliar, Kyle (Greg Adamczyk) Helliar, and Sean (Bailynne Miller) Helliar.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nursing and hospice staff of Good Samaritan Hospice, whose compassion and care brought comfort and peace to Brigitte in her final year and a half, and in her last days.

In accordance with Brigitte’s wishes, all services will be private and have been entrusted to Darroch Cremation and Funeral Tributes, Inc., 2640 Mill Street, Aliquippa.
www.darrochfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to PBS or the Arbor Day Foundation, or simply planting a tree in Brigitte’s memory — a living tribute to a life rooted in love and beauty.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brigitte Helliar, please visit our floral store.