Helen Gere Pompura, 100, of Morgantown, passed away Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Evergreen Assisted Living. Born February 6, 1926, in McKeesport, Pa., she lived a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to her family, hard work, faith, and a spirited personality that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
Helen was the daughter of the late Mihaly Gere and the late Helen Molnar Gere. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, John C. Pompura; her children, John and Mary Ann; her grandson, Keith; her brothers, Joe, Mike, and Tom; and her sisters, Mogie, Julie, and Frannie.
She is survived by her children, Deb, Karen and husband Keith, Joseph and wife Kim. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, John Thomas “JT”, Tim and Michaela, Allie and Andy, Emily, and John Michael; and many others who were blessed by her love and guidance.
Helen learned early the value of hard work and perseverance. During World War II, she worked in Pittsburgh at the steel mill as a brick layers helper, doing her part during a time when strength and determination were needed everywhere. Later, she worked at the Beaumont Glass Factory for more than 10 years, where she was known for her reliability and steady work ethic. Helen carried that same strength into every part of her life, and she was admired for being a strong and spunky woman who never backed down from life’s challenges.
On March 7, 1951, Helen married the love of her life, John C. Pompura, in Oakland, Md. Together they built a family rooted in love, tradition, and resilience. Helen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, and her home was often the center of family gatherings. She was well known for her chicken noodle soup and her Sunday dinners, which brought family and friends together around her table. She enjoyed feeding many of her children’s friends as well, and she welcomed them as if they were her own. Her cooking was exceptional, and the warmth she shared through her meals became one of the many ways she showed her love.
Helen was a Protestant and belonged to the Hungarian Reform Church, where her faith was an important part of her life. Her beliefs helped guide her through both joyful and difficult times, and she carried herself with the quiet strength and grace that reflected her values.
She was also known for enjoying the simple pleasures of life, including fishing, which she loved dearly. Helen was an avid fisherman and found joy in time spent outdoors, where she could relax and enjoy the peace of nature. She also loved to gamble, and she approached that pastime with the same lively spirit that characterized so much of her life.
Friends and family may gather in McCulla Funeral Home, 770 Fairmont Road, Westover, Wednesday, June 24, from 10 until the 11 a.m. funeral service.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.McCulla.com
