Nov. 27, 1924 -- Jan. 24, 2004

Helen B. Custard, 79, of Tanglewood Trace, Mishawaka, Ind., formerly of Charles Street in South Bend, Ind., passed away on Friday, Jan. 23 in Our Lady of Peace Hospital South Bend.

Helen was born on Nov. 27, 1924 to the late William and Emma Grace (Kelly) Davis. On July 1, 1943 she married Worden R. Custard in St. Matthew's Church Rectory. They shared 58 years together until Worden's death on Jan. 6, 2002.

Helen is survived by six children, Susan J. (James) Biggs of South Bend, Phillip E. (Betsy)Custard of Mishawaka, Scott M. Custard of Costa Rica, Marcia A. (David) Qualls of Osceola, Ind., Patricia K. Deethardt of Indianapolis, Ind., and James K. Custard of Chicago, Ill.; eleven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by two sisters, Jean (Elmo) Vernasco of Granger, Ind., and Mardell (Jerry) Goralczyk of South Bend; and two brothers, James William (Gerri) Davis of South Bend and Donald (Hermie) Davis of San Diego, Calif.

In additional to her husband Worden she was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Tara Marie Hoffman (Qualls); and a sister, Rita (Russell) Benford.

Helen was a loving mother and grandmother, aunt and trusted friend. Her friendly smile greeted many shoppers at the Mishawaka K-Mart Service Desk for over 25 years. Her hands were rarely idle. She knitted and crocheted many afghans and baby gifts for family and friends. She enjoyed bowling, crafting, shopping and playing cards. She was always ready to go with her family or friends.

Visitation will be today, Jan. 26, between 4 and 8 p.m. in the Hickey Funeral Home, located at 17131 Cleveland Road, South Bend, where a rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. Also, on Tuesday, Jan. 27 between 9 and 9:45 a.m. in Little Flower Catholic Church, 54191 N. Ironwood, South Bend, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. Neil Ryan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Millhouse or Little Flower Catholic Church.