Helen Cianelli

Helen V. Cianelli (neé Shifler), 96, died on Saturday, January 16, 2021 in Boonsboro.

Helen was born in Boonsboro on September 2, 1924 to Earl and Pearl Shifler.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Anthony A. Cianelli , her son Anthony W. Cianelli, her sisters Margaret Rudy and Janice Rice, and her nephew Emory (Junior) Rudy.

Helen is survived by daughter Andrea Hotaling (William), son Thomas Cianelli (Mary), three grandchildren: Gina Smith (Jesse), Michael Cianelli (Jenna), and Jay Hotaling, and two great-grandchildren: Charles and Evelyn Cianelli.  She is also survived by brothers-in-law: William Cianelli (Virginia) and Robert Cianelli (Arlise), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Helen graduated Hagerstown High School Class of 1942 and for many decades actively participated with the reunion committee.  During World War II she worked as a nurses’ aide at the Washington County Hospital and at the Western Maryland Railroad car shop .  She was a wonderful wife and mother, a devoted grandmother, and a dedicated supporter of her children’s and grandchildren’s activities.  With great zeal she became a skilled seamstress fashioning clothes, costumes, and gowns.  Her expertise as a cookie baker was unrivaled.  She thoroughly enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren.  Helen/Mom/Grandma was much loved and will be much missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Helen Cianelli to the following: Trinity United Church of Christ, Historic Stained Glass Window Restoration, 33 Potomac St., Boonsboro, MD 21713 or to Fahrney-Keedy Memorial Home, 8507 Mapleville Rd., Boonsboro, MD 21713. Due to Covid restrictions, the funeral will be private with a celebration of life at a later date.

Arrangements will be handled by Bast-Stauffer Funeral Home in Boonsboro. Expressions of sympathy  may be offered to the family at StaufferFuneralHome.com.