Helen (Chornega) Szajda

LEBANON - Helen C. Szajda, 99 years young, died peacefully on Saturday (January 13, 2018) at her home. Born in New York City on April 20, 1918, she was the daughter of the late John and Anna (Zablotski) Chornega. The family moved to Lebanon when she was nine years old and lived there until her passing. She married Leon Szajda on Nov. 20, 1937 and the two shared 53 years of marriage before he predeceased her on March 5, 1991.  She is survived by her loving children, Jon Paul and Priscilla; her son-in-law, Darwin Gebbie; three grandsons, Alexander and wife Jessica Gebbie, Nicholas Gebbie and Christopher and wife Kate Gebbie; granddaughter-in-law, Kristin Gebbie; three great grandchildren; as well as a beloved niece, Charlotte Randall.  In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Mary Chornega; an infant son, Neil; a daughter Joan Marie Taylor; and a grandson, Gregory James Gebbie.  Helen enjoyed life in Lebanon and was a proud steward of the land.  She and Leon were dairy farmers for many years.  Helen was an avid conversationalist and delighted all with her colorful and wise homilies - one of her favorites being "The old gray mare ain't what she used to be".  She was a beautiful woman who exemplified strength, loyalty and common sense.  She continued taking pleasure in her family and home, even in her waning years.  On her journey, she was a gifted gardener with a truly earned green thumb.  She also loved quilting, knitting, sewing, ceramics, rug-making and oil painting.  She sustained her love of reading her entire life.  In accordance with her wishes, services will be private.  In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Lebanon Historical Society, P.O. Box 151, Lebanon 06249.