Learn & Play Founder

Helen R. Swass, formerly Helen R. Goodman, was born September 7, 1921 in Harperville, Mississippi and passed away on June 25, 2012 at home in Oak Harbor, Washington. Her greatest love was the Lord Jesus Christ and children. But she loved everyone she knew and met and her greatest gift was conveying that love. She founded and owned the Learn & Play Kindergarten from 1957-1973 and was part-owner of the children’s clothing store, “Jenique.” After selling the kindergarten, she went to school and became a Licensed Vocational Nurse and worked in convalescent centers until her parents’ health failed, then became a full-time care-giver for them. After they passed on, she cared for her ailing brother and her younger sister until they also passed. Her selflessness was a great example and testimony to her favorite quote, “Christ is first, Others are second, I am third.” Her love and presence will be missed by all who loved and knew her. She was preceded in death by her husband Jack C. Goodman and second husband, Russell W Swass; her parents, Rev. James H and Grace C Sharp; her sisters Ora Smith and Grace Bishop; her brothers Rev. J. B. Sharp and Welbourne Sharp; and her children Gayle Goodman and Barbara Russell. She is survived by her daughters Rhonda Roberts, Jackie Graham, and Beatrice Downs; her sons-in-law Dean Nelson and Mark Graham; her grandchildren Julie Graham, Matthew and Nevi Graham, Skye and Jerry Czember, Vince and Renee Russell, Doug and Maria Nelson, David and Kristin Nelson, Gary Rodriquez, and Brian and Lora Rodriguez; and numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Her best buddy and fellow trekker was her great grandson, Trevor Borne.

Helen’s farewell service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, July 1, 2012 at the Oak Harbor Methodist Church. Donations may be made to the Oak Harbor Help House. Your prayers for the family are greatly appreciated.