Helen Elizabeth Wilson

It is with deep love and heartfelt sorrow that the family of Helen Elizabeth Wilson, age 82, of Lonaconing, Maryland, announce her peaceful passing in the early morning hours of Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, while surrounded by family. Helen was gently called home with her daughter Vicki, her son Rick “RT” Wilson, and her granddaughter Sarah by her side, along with the angels in Heaven welcoming her home.

Helen courageously battled aggressive cholangiocarcinoma for six long years. Given a prognosis where only one in five survive, she far exceeded all expectations. When the odds were stacked against her, Helen remained a beacon of strength, faith, and light for her family. She chose to keep living—loving deeply, persevering bravely, and inspiring all who knew her.

Helen truly never met a stranger. Her son-in-law often joked conversations didn’t travel by telephone, but by “tell a Helen, tell a Vicki, or tell a Sarah.” This gift for connection was inherited honestly from her beloved mother, Adeline Conlon, who faithfully listened to the scanner and stayed connected to her community.

Helen was preceded in death by her adoring mother, Adeline Conlon, her cherished grandson, Garrett Wilson, and many dear friends and extended family members. She was the last remaining and eldest member of the Miller-Garlitz family tree, a living link to generations of love and history.

Those she leaves behind to cherish her memory are her daughter, Vicki (Gary) Taylor of Lonaconing; her son, Richard “RT” (Robin) Wilson of Bloomington; grandchildren Sarah Taylor of Cumberland, Andrew Taylor of Frostburg (Julie Nixon and son Nathan), Jacob Taylor of Moscow, and Melissa Wilson of Bloomington; and her treasured great-grandchildren Adeline Wilson, Guthrie Wilson, Ember Wilson, Carson Taylor, and Aria Taylor. She also leaves behind several cousins and some very special extended friends who have become family: Bonnie Miller and her neighbors Mr. and Mrs. Ricky Bodey.

Helen was a proud graduate of Valley High School, where she was crowned Miss Valley High. She continued her education at Allegany College of Maryland, studying business. Helen dedicated much of her professional life to caring for veterans, retiring from the VA Medical Center in Cumberland, where she worked in registration. She also served at the VA Medical Center in Martinsburg, West Virginia, and Bethesda Naval Hospital in Maryland. One of her most cherished life moments was meeting President Ronald Reagan. Whether on or off duty, Helen had a deep and abiding respect for servicemen and women and found great purpose in supporting them and their families however she could.

Above all else, Helen treasured her family. There was never a gathering she didn’t want to miss—especially her beloved Fourth of July celebrations in her yard, where family and friends gathered to watch what she proudly claimed were the best fireworks around. She treasured time she had spent catching up with others, sharing stories, and simply being surrounded by those she loved.

Family and friends are welcome to gather and share memories of Helen at the Boal Memorial Chapel, Barton on Tuesday, January 20th from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. A memorial service celebrating Helen’s life will take place at 3:00 p.m. with the Reverend Thomas Morgan officiating.

Helen’s legacy is one of resilience, kindness, connection, and unwavering devotion to family. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched!