Helen Jean Piacitelli Smith
April 24, 1925 - March 22, 2017
Helen Jean Piacitelli Smith, beloved spouse, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt passed away from causes related to Alzheimer's disease on March 22, 2017. She died peacefully at her daughter's home surrounded by family. She was born in Price, UT on April 24, 1925, to John and Helen Piacitelli. Helen married William Daniel Smith in 1949. Helen attended Notre Dame Catholic Elementary school in Price, Judge Memorial Catholic High School, and St. Mary of the Wasatch Catholic College in Salt Lake City. She earned her Masters Degree in Social Work at the University of Utah in 1968. Helen worked for the State of Utah Division of Child and Family Services until her retirement after 30 years of service.
Helen was an elegant, fun loving, intelligent person whose greatest joy was her own family. She loved cooking family dinners, singing and dancing. She was a prolific reader, enjoyed writing poetry, and solving crossword puzzles. During her college years she was the lead actress in many school plays. She enjoyed gardening, decorating her house, shopping and going on long walks with her friends.
Helen is survived by two children Rebecca Marie Smith, Frances Ann Smith; two sons-in-law Herb Clemens and Warren Schroer; granddaughter Kathryn Anne Clemens; sister Nora Dalpiaz; brother John Piacitelli; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband; two granddaughters; sisters Mildred Kasparec, Florence Piacitelli, and Adeline LeBar; and brothers Edward Piacitelli, and Reverend Henry Piacitelli, CMC.
A wake will be held on Sunday, March 26th, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. All are welcome. A Mass in celebration of her life will be held on Monday, March 27th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1375 Spring Lane, Salt Lake City. Burial services will be held at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery following the Mass.
You may send flowers to Starks Funeral Parlor or make a donation to the Alzheimer's Association in Helen's honor.
In Loving Memory
Frances and Rebecca - Just wanted to offer mu condolences on the passing of your mom. I enjoyed taking care of her at Silverado. She had a fun personality and loved clapping her hands to the music. Glad I had the opportunity to meet your family. I will never forget the loving care that you gave to your mom. It was easy to see how loved she was. May you find peace. Thinking of you at this time.
Alissa Christensen
Kearns, Ut
Dear Frances and Becky , l want to let you know how much I have enjoyed your mom . She was a very gifted lady . I especially loved it when she would sing , what a beautiful voice . It has been my pleasure to get to know you and see your loving care of your mother. My deepest sympathy to you and thank you for your friendship .
Lorraine DeBry
South Jordan, Ut