Helen Powers Brownhill

Helen Powers Brownhill, 91, died on Monday, March 20, 2017, in a manner that resembled the way she lived: gracefully, quickly, and without much trouble or drama. Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Sister, and Friend, she will be dearly missed by all in her circle whose challenge now will be how to live without her.
Helen was married for 55 years to Paul Malley Brownhill (deceased). She is survived by three sons: Paul Robert (wife Pam) of Blairsville, GA; Mark James (wife Emily) of Columbia, MA; and William Patrick (wife Robin) of Glen Allen, VA. Helen's sister is Ann Scheuble. Helen is also survived by 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, as well as 5 nieces and 2 nephews.
A lifelong resident of Pittsburgh, Helen was raised by Theresa and John Powers and was the youngest of 5 children. Her work history included a brief period in retail and a longer career as a file clerk and later a secretary at Gulf Oil. After her youngest son graduated from high school, Helen worked for many more years at various companies: as a Kelly temp, and at PNC Bank and the Pittsburgh Convention Center. Well into her eighth decade, Helen volunteered at the Benedum and Byham theaters.
Helen's Catholic Christian life was an example to all, especially her grandchildren, with whom she joyfully shared the summer festival at SS Simon and Jude Parish, as well as baptisms, confirmations, and weddings. She was a founding member of SS Simon and Jude and a member of Christian Mothers.
At every stage of life, Helen Brownhill loved being active and engaged. She was a bit of a daredevil – not afraid of giant roller coasters, sail gliding, or parasailing, to name a few. She had a passion for swimming, boating, and waterskiing; and she still swam regularly past the age of 90. Helen and Paul hiked for many years with the Ramblers group.
Helen's hobbies were also cerebral: She enjoyed reading and belonged to several bridge groups. She wasn't intimidated by technology, either. Helen signed up for night classes in computer use and was perhaps the last living American to fully utilize Web TV. Curious, engaged, and a good listener, Helen was diplomatic but not afraid to speak her mind and at times could be very stubborn.
Above all, Helen was devoted to family and seemed to relish the role of a patient, playful grandmother who loved and cared for babies and children. This cherished matriarch of small stature leaves an enormous hole in our hearts with her passing.