Helen May (Shaffer) Bastian, born on September 25, 1949, in Johnson City, NY, to Robert and Norma Shaffer passed away peacefully on June 14, 2024, in Sayre, PA. She was 74 years old.

Helen, fondly known as "Henny," was a devoted mother to her three daughters, Amber (Mike) Martin, Nicole Shaffer, and Heather Shaffer, as well as a adopted daughter Carol (John) Wentworth, a proud grandmother to her 13 grandchildren: Drew Shaffer, LaTasha Blaney, Danielle Tadder, Hailee Tadder, Dreylynn Shaffer, Makayla Tadder, Mackenzie Shaffer, Norah Martin, Hannah Tadder, Sarah Martin, Daniel Tadder, Nickalous Shaffer, and Lissiano Cheatham, as well as five great-grandchildren: Serayah Halpin, Draiden Shaffer, Elijah Mathers, Levi Pemberton, and Kétrell Kelly Shaffer.

Helen's spirit was as vibrant as her love for life. She enjoyed various hobbies, particularly any form of gambling, including playing bingo and slots at the casino, and poker nights with her family. A graduate of Jamaica Plain High School, she was an amazing singer who spent several years performing in a band, showcasing her love for music, especially the sounds of Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley, and Patsy Cline.

Her love for food was evident, with a special fondness for a good Chicken BBQ, and she found joy in watching her favorite TV shows, including "Dancing with the Stars," "Jeopardy," "Wheel of Fortune," and "American Idol." A sports enthusiast, Helen was a New England fan of football, baseball, and basketball. Go Patriots!

Helen's life was marked by her warmth, kindness, and humor. She was a strong single mother who impacted the lives of many, always willing to help anyone in need. She is survived by her sisters, Ruth Philbrook, Marilyn and special brother in law Doug Walton, along with many cousins, friends, several nieces and nephews, and a special niece and caregiver, Lori Golden.

Helen was predeceased by her loving parents, her husband Nickalous Bastian, brothers Robert and Arnold Shaffer, sister Beverly Jayne, and a very special son-in-law, Mike Martin.

Helen May Bastian will be remembered for her loving nature, her joyful spirit, and her unwavering dedication to her family. Her favorite place in the world, Vinalhaven, Maine, will forever hold the memories of her laughter and love. "Love ya sweets," she would say, a sentiment that will resonate with all who knew her.

Her loving family invites you to join them for her memorial held September 28th at Veterans of Foreign Wars 113 Keefe Street Elmira, NY beginning at noon with a meal to follow.