Helen M. Ripley

Helen M. Ripley, 91, of New Philadelphia, died peacefully Wednesday afternoon, September 24, 2003 at Clare Bridge Cottage, where she had been a resident for two years. Born in Waynesburg, PA, she was a daughter of the late Wade and Ottie Mae Conkey Blacka. As a young child, Helen moved from Waynesburg to this area with her family. Helen worked in various industries, and retired as owner-operator of her own beauty shop known as Helen’s Beauty Shop on North Broadway in New Philadelphia. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Dover. She dearly loved her children and grandchildren, and was able to complete a quilt for each of her nine grandchildren. She was a great cook and enjoyed having all of her extended family to her home for a tremendous meal. Helen is preceded in death by her husband of fifty years, the late Earl. W. Ripley who preceded her in death in 1983. Together, they raised three children, Ray of New Philadelphia, Bill and his wife Sandy also of New Philadelphia, and daughter Sandra and her husband Dale Zeimer of Dover.She’ll be sadly missed by her nine grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, brothers Ralph, Ray, Harley, Ted and Frank Blacka also precede her in death. At Helen’s request, there will be no calling hours or public services. Cremation will be conducted locally through the care of Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory. Burial, alongside her husband will follow at East Avenue Cemetery. In memory of Helen, please direct memorial contributions to Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 201 West Third Street, Dover, OH, 44622.