Helen Louise Manuel

Helen Louise Bloesch Manuel, 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 18, 2026.

She was born on August 12, 1950, in Fort Worth, Texas to the late Joseph Ambrose and Bobbie Louise Henderson Bloesch.

Helen was a woman whose kindness and compassion touched the lives of countless people. A beloved mother not only to her own children but also to many others she welcomed into her life, she had a remarkable way of making those around her feel loved and cared for. Her love for her family was immeasurable, and her devotion to helping others knew no bounds.

The daughter of a United States Marine, Helen carried with her a strong sense of determination, independence, and dedication throughout her life. She was a hardworking mother who often balanced multiple jobs while raising her two children and pursuing her education. She attended Washington-Lee High School and later furthered her education at Blue Ridge Community College in Weyers Cave. Her strong work ethic eventually led to a career with the Internal Revenue Service, where she worked for eighteen years.

On October 26,1988, Helen married Norman Keith Manuel, beginning another meaningful chapter in her life.

Helen had a wide variety of interests and found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She was an avid reader who enjoyed keeping up with politics, current events, and the world around her. She appreciated a good comedy, loved preparing her favorite foods, and never passed up the opportunity to find a great bargain. She especially loved living in Staunton; a community she was proud to call home and where she found great happiness.

An especially devoted animal lover, Helen had a tender heart for creatures great and small. Her compassion extended well beyond her family to her animals. She generously volunteered her time to help those in need and regularly supported charitable organizations, often giving without expecting anything in return. Helping others was not simply something Helen did; it was an essential part of who she was.

Above all, Helen will be remembered for her boundless kindness, her unwavering love for her family, and her willingness to lend a helping hand whenever it was needed. Her legacy of love and compassion will continue through the many lives she touched and the countless acts of kindness she shared along the way.

She is survived by her two daughters, Nicole Rhea Simmons and Kelly Anne Simmons Cousins; her grandchildren, Jessica Leigh Regis, Kyle Scott Cousins, Jacob Alexander Cousins, and Karma Leah Tinsley; her great-grandchildren, Kelsey Nevaeh Nedrow and Joel Alexander Cousins; her nephews, David Courtney Velke II and Robert Monroe Velke; and her beloved cat, Mittens.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Jo Annete Bloesch Velke; her brother-in-law, David Courtney Velke; her niece, Dawna Anne Bures; and her pets, Krystal, Ben, Lele, and Dylan.

A memorial service will be held at 7:00 PM on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton with Reverend Russell Heinrich officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 6:00 PM.

Henry Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.