Helene Ann (Schaaf) Sodoski

Helene Ann Sodoski, 84, of Winston-Salem, passed peacefully into sleep waiting to be in paradise, June 21, 2021. Born December 24, 1936, in Stratford, Connecticut, she was the daughter of Eugene P. and Katherine M. Graham Schaaf.  She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her children, Katherine M. Fuller (Gary), Thomas Sodoski, Charles Eugene Sodoski (Michelle), Christopher Sodoski, Jo-Ann Sodoski, James Sodoski (April); grandchildren, JoAnna, Michael, Robert, Samantha, Aubree, Kandace, Lee, Thomas, Christine, Landrue, Benjamin, Hannah, Julianna, Lilly, Darren; many great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; a sister-in-law, Elaine Mitcham; and Virginia Atkinson.  She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles Sodoski, Jr.; a daughter, Carla Sodoski; three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Eugene Schaaf (Mary), Bill Schaaf (Trese), Pete Schaaf; a sister, Barbara Byman (Ed); a grandson, Joshua Steven Sodoski; and son-in-law, Michael Jeffery.

Helene and Charles were married on June 16, 1955.  Her greatest thrill in life was being baptized in 1956 as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and she joyfully shared that love with as many people as would listen. Helene appreciated music, especially that of Johnny Mathis and Nat King Cole but when her Charlie played his accordion, it caused her bright blue eyes to sparkle, matching her fiery spirit.   Being a wonderful, hard-working mother of seven children, she became an avid vegetable-gardener with a love of saving plants, crocheted lovely afghans, and was the best spaghetti and stuffed-cabbage maker.  Her greatest hope was to be in Paradise and being with “her” Charlie again.

The deepest appreciation and thanks for the most loving care given by the Well Care Hospice Team for going above and beyond in taking care of Helene, making sure all of her needs were taken care of.  Most of all, thank you to her congregation she saw faithfully every week on Zoom.  All the outpouring of love and prayers for her were immeasurable and brought her tears of joy, and to the special people that touched her heart, you know who you are.

A cheerful memory shared by her family: “I love you a little.  I love you big.  I love you like a little…sheep.” - Helene

Memorial arrangements will follow.

Cox-Needham Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Sodoski family.  Online condolences may be made at www.coxneedham.com .

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