Helen Leland, age 86, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2013. The daughter of Mexican and Greek immigrants Nick and Mary Esther Faitos, Helen was a homemaker, teacher and part-time radio personality.
Helen loved good books, old movies and her Northern California birthplace.
She lived in Mexico and France and was fluent in both languages.
Helen was a long-time member of the Women's International League of Peace and Freedom (WILPF) and was committed to immigration reform.
As best stated by her niece, Susan Faitos, "Aunt Helen never stopped advocating for the things she believed in". Helen is survived by her brother, Nick (Margaret); and her three children, Colombe Leland, David Leland/Phyllis Hunt and Daniel Leland. Also by her grandchildren, Ben, Maria, Angel; and nieces, Susan, Helen; and nephews, Ernest and Nick.
Special thanks to the staff of Wesley Glen and Hospice Services at Methodist Elder Care.
Private family services. Contributions in remembrance can be made to Clintonville-Beechwold Community Resources Center, 14 West Lakeview Ave., Columbus, OHIO 43202.
Published in The Columbus Dispatch on May 26, 2013