Catholic Community Services of Western Washington joins the community in mourning the loss of Helen Jolly, a devoted volunteer, faithful Catholic, and extraordinary advocate for those most in need.
Helen’s life was defined by generosity in action. A longtime parishioner of Holy Rosary Edmonds Catholic Church, she dedicated decades of service to Catholic causes and to Catholic Community Services programs that strengthened families and uplifted vulnerable neighbors.
Her hands and heart were present in foster care advocacy, housing programs, the Christmas Tree program, Easter baskets, and lovingly handmade quilts for Permanent Supportive Housing residents at Clare’s Place, Sebastian Place, Martha’s Place, and Francis Place. Through every stitch, every event, and every quiet act of service, Helen reminded people they were seen, valued, and loved.
Born in Spokane and a graduate of the Academy of the Holy Names and Seattle University, Helen carried her faith into every chapter of her life. She and her first husband, John, were honored by Seattle University with the Distinguished Alumni Award for their service, including their role in bringing the St. Ignatius Chapel to life as a spiritual home for generations of students.
Helen’s impact extended beyond programs and projects. She led the St. Martin de Porres Shelter’s Golf Tournament for many years, taught quilting through prison ministry, and received the Archdiocese’s Hunthausen Humanitarian Award for her lifelong commitment to justice and compassion. She had a remarkable gift for making each person feel like the most important one in the room — because to her, they were.
We are especially mindful of Helen’s family, including her daughter Teresa Holt, a longtime Farmworker Center volunteer and member of our CCS Snohomish Ambassador Core. Helen’s spirit of service lives on through her family and through the countless lives she touched.
Helen showed us what faithful service looks like: steadfast, joyful, and rooted in love. We honor her legacy by serving others with the same dedicated compassion — volunteer, give, and lift up a neighbor in need.
We give thanks for her life and for the enduring legacy she leaves within the CCS community.
The Jolly family has asked that remembrances be made to her beloved St. Theresa School – Scholarships in Kekaha, Kauai, P.O. Box 277, Kekaha, HI 96752. Donate online here.