Helen B. Skane

Helen B. Skane (nee Forjohn), 81, of West Chester, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home on December 6, 2025, after years of courageously fighting a long illness.

Born in West Philadelphia in 1944 to Louise and Peter Forjohn, Helen attended West Catholic Girls High School and later Penn State University. There, she discovered her calling as an educator—a passion that guided her through more than 30 years of teaching elementary school. She began her career in Philadelphia at Steven Girard Elementary School as a 5th grade teacher and spent the remaining years of her career at Mary C. Howse Elementary School in West Chester, where she touched countless lives with her compassion, patience, and unwavering dedication to her students.

In 1967, Helen married the love of her life, Mike, her soulmate, partner, and best friend. Together they built their home and life in West Chester, where they raised their daughters and became beloved pillars of the community for many years.

Helen is survived by her daughters, Debbie Sanchez (Eddie) of West Orange, New Jersey, and Kellie Skane (Nick) of West Chester, Pennsylvania, as well as her cherished grandson, Michael (Larissa)—who was truly the light of her life and brought joy to her every day.

Helen will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her warmth, and her ability to make every room brighter. She was the life of the party, a steady voice of reason, and a source of love and support to all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she shaped, the family she adored, and the community she served.

May her beautiful light continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved her.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation 4:00-8:00 PM Wedensday, December 17, 2025 and 8:30-9:30 AM Thursday at The Donohue Funeral Home, 1627 West Chester Pike, West Chester, PA 19382, 610-431-9000, followed by her Funeral Mass 10:00 AM at SS Simon & Jude Church, 8 Cavanaugh Court, West Chester, PA 19382. Interment private.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Home of the Sparrow. Shelter for women and children: 

Payable to Home of the Sparrow, Home of the Sparrow, 969 E Swedesford Rd, Exton, PA 19341.