Helen M. Fitsik, age 95, of Rome, passed away on February 4, 2026, at Betsy Ross Nursing Home after a brief illness.

Helen was born in Norfolk, NY on March 3, 1930 to the late George and Elizabeth Tephenhart Simons. On October 7, 1950 she was united in marriage to Mike J. Fitsik, who was a lifelong Roman, and the couple raised their three children until Mike's passing on December 27, 1983, after 33 years of love and memories. Helen retired from Montgomery Ward's after 25 years of service.

Helen was a very hard worker and loved cooking, baking, and working in her flower and vegetable gardens. Her children and grandchildren can attest that she was a stickler for detail and it was evident in how well she maintained her yard and home. She will be sadly missed and remembered for her love of her grandchildren and the times she spent with her family. Rest in Peace Mom!

Helen is survived by her children, Michael (Laurie) Fitsik of Clifton Park, NY, Donna (David) Tarnowski of South Bend, IN, and Richard (Linda) Fitsik of Rome; nine grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; and her sister, Liz Purvis of Norfolk, NY; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by four sisters and six brothers.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 11 AM, at St. Peter's Church. Burial will be in Rome Cemetery in the spring.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects at the church from 10 to 11 AM prior to the funeral mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of one's choice.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.