Helen (Triniesweski) Jez, 98, of Plains passed away peacefully at home on March 31, 2022.

Helen was born June 15th, 1923 in Plains to Rose and John Triniesweski, Polish immigrants. She was the seventh-born of twelve children; one boy and eleven girls. After her father died of miner's lung, she and a sister worked as housekeepers to support the family. She remained close with her siblings all their lives.

She married the love of her life, John Jez, in a double wedding with her sister Florence Kowalski on Feb 14, 1946. John and Helen faithfully attended Sacred Heart church.

Helen's ambition, skills as a seamstress, and reputation as no-nonsense manager earned her the position of "floor lady" at a local dress factory. With hard work and shrewd savings, she paid for the couple's house in full with cash. She told the story to anyone who would listen.

Helen loved her job, but was happy to retire to raise her sons. Helen's home was open to any child who needed a snack, homework help, or a place to nap.

Helen helped to raise three generations of children.  She  adored her grandchildren, telling each of them he or she was her favorite - and she meant it. She baked pineapple squares and sewed matching outfits for her family. Her window box overflowed with white alyssum and johnny jump-ups, and her backyard garden with tomatoes and green beans. Helen was always up for a trip to The Salvation Army - "Sally's."  She loved to show off her American Red Cross 5, 10, and 20-gallon blood donor pins.

Helen's guests were greeted like royalty, fed, and prompted to discuss the day's gas prices or the Yankees game. Helen didn't know the meaning of "a full table." She could always squeeze one more chair into her little kitchen, and taught her children and grandchildren to do the same. Her memory will be a blessing for so many.

Helen is preceded in death by her beloved husband, John, her parents, and ten siblings. She is survived by  the family she nurtured for nearly sixty-six years: her sister, Anna, her sons, John and Steven (Carrie), five grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and too many friends to count. Funeral arrangements are private from the Yeosock funeral home, 40 S Main St, Plains, 18705. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the SPCA of Luzerne County.