R. Lynn Helsel Wade, 66, of Kingston, N.Y., and formerly of Newtown, died peacefully January 25 in the presence of her husband, son, and daughter. Her courageous battle with vascular disease was a 25-year fight that she never gave up. She was the daughter of Rose L. and Robert G. Helsel, former chief driver of the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps and former superintendent of the Sunday School for Newtown Congregational Church.

Throughout her life, her goals were to please her God and to love her family, which always included those friends and strangers who needed a kind word and a listening ear. Her animals were also a huge part of who she was, and there was never a time when she was not followed by at least one dog, but often many, and other various creatures throughout the years.

Ms Wade attended school in Newtown (Class of '68) and studied psychology at Tusculum College in Greeneville, Tenn. There she met Richard "Dickey" Wade, her devoted husband of 46 years. Dickey was stationed in Japan for several years where Lynn taught English in her own unique style by combining the lessons with her great love and talent for cooking. Many of her Japanese students became lifelong friends, coming under the spell, as most did, of her wit, warmth, and feisty charm.

She also was the president of her Woman's Bowling League at Camp Zama, Sagamihara, and editor of the league's cook book. Although Ms Wade, Dickey, and their children, Charity and Richard Jr, lived at a range of different bases over time, she always pursued her passion of community theater, performing in or directing close to 50 productions. She also had the heart and strength to be a devoted foster care mother to more than 20 children. Ms Wade lovingly provided ten years of compassionate and astute care in her home for her mother until her passing two years ago.

In 1995 her first grandchild was born, and her dedication to him saw him through the darkest times of his life. All of her grandchildren knew that she was someone that they could count on, no matter what else was going on around them. She was the backbone of the family - the person that supported everyone and taught them how to fight the good fight and to always stand up for what they believed. Her frequent reminder "Grandma is always right and is the smartest person in the world" was always a comfort and a truth.

In addition to her husband, son, and daughter, her beloved grandchildren, David, Daniel, Darius, Calvin, Cami, and Caleb; her sister Janet of Santa Barbara, Calif.; her brother Robert Jr of Newtown; her nephew and niece; and her Cairn terrier survive her. Her parents and infant sister Christine predeceased her.

There will be a celebration of Ms Wade's life at St James United Methodist Church, 35 Pearl Street, Kingston, on Saturday, February 11, at 11 am. All are welcome.