Obituary of Helen Markiel Bryner

BRYNER, Helen Markiel, 100, of Midlothian, born September 26,1918, died peacefully at home on August 21, 2019. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry J. Markiel and Angelina Morawski, her husband of 58 years, Charles Allen Bryner and her son, Daniel Paul Bryner. Helen is survived by her two sons Dr. Michael A. Bryner (Thelma) and James G. Bryner (Karen). She also leaves behind to cherish her memory her grandchildren, Jeff, Scott, Sarah, and Emily and great grandchildren, Eva, Owen, and Wolf. She had a distinguished 31+years innovative teaching career (primarily in western NY) noted for fostering patriotic principles and civic values for which she received the 1969 Valley Forge Freedoms Foundation National Teacher's Medal award. Her long involvement with Special Olympics and support for those with disabilities earned a 1998 Lifetime Achievement Award. She and her family were named New York State Special Olympics Family of the Year in 1989. Helen's teaching influence continued after her move to St. Louis, MO in 2000 where she became fully engaged with the organizations and agencies that provided support services for individuals with special needs. Her viewpoint was that every individual has potential and the parents' duty is to maximize that potential. In 2016, Helen moved to Midlothian, VA bringing her values and wisdom of a full life well lived which she shared through her participation in WINGS (Women In God's Service church group), where she was more than graciously received. The family is especially grateful for the love, care, and support of friends and neighbors in O'Fallon, MO and Midlothian, VA and especially the St Gabriel community for embracing Helen and making her last years full and happy. A special note of acknowledgment and gratitude is extended to the medical personnel, hospice team members and care givers who attended her with tremendous love and expertise in her last days. A visitation will be held Wednesday, October 16, 4:00pm - 8:00pm at Lind Funeral Home, 805 W 3rd St, Jamestown, NY 14701. Family will share remarks at 6:30. A grave side service and internment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery on Thursday, October 17 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Special Olympics in your local area. You may leave words of condolence at www.lindfuneralhome.com.