Helen Lucile Anderson Pool
Helen Anderson Pool of Quincy, Illinois, Bickford Senior Living, passed away on December 1, 2023 at the age of 100. Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Ross Pool of Quincy, Illinois.
Helen was the last surviving child of the late Albert E. and Esther Sharp Anderson; her siblings, sister Ruth Anderson Botts, and brothers Robert D., George, and Marion Anderson, preceded her in death.
Helen is survived by two sons, Charles and Rod (Joan Colangelo), and daughter Crystal (Danny Pariseau), granddaughter Alexandra Ross Pool (Ryan Kossol) and great-grandson Owen Kossol, and granddaughter Jessica Lindsey Pool (Dylan Hardman). A sister-in-law Joye Anderson and nieces and nephews also survive.
Born on April 13, 1923, on the Sharpe family farmstead near Kickapoo in Leavenworth County, Kansas, the family lived in Washington and Florida before moving to Quincy.
After graduating from Quincy Senior High School, she moved to Kansas City, Missouri where she spent a year in college before working in administration at the Government Ordinance war plant, contributing to the treatment of military uniforms to protect against chemicals. She later worked at an ALCO Aircraft engine plant until the end of the war.
On April 3rd,1946, Helen married Jack Ross Pool of Quincy, Illinois, at the residence of the President of Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Missouri. Their honeymoon was a memorable driving tour of the southern states to Jack’s city attorney position in Harlingen, Texas.
Helen actively participated in community service and volunteer work throughout her life. In Texas, she served as the Community Editor for the Rio Hondo Press. Throughout her years in Quincy, she dedicated her time as an election judge, contributed to the Osage Orangerie Gift Shop, and served as a board member for the Art Center. Her volunteer efforts extended to the Blessing Hospital Women’s Guild Tea Room, and she was an active member of the Polis-Pursuit of Learning in Society, attending the inaugural classes at Quincy University.
Helen was a proud member of various organizations, including the Adams County Republicans Club, where she served as chaplain and board member. She was also involved with the Artists Guild, Great River Watercolor Society, Friends of the Library, P.E.O. (where she held positions as chaplain and guard), Quincy Historical Society, Quincy Museum, Quincy Preserves, and the Society of Fine Arts.
Helen Anderson Pool will be remembered fondly and missed dearly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was such a dear. She and my mother paled around and got into trouble together and had lots of fun. Your Father married Steve and me. We loved them both.
Charlie, Rod, & Crystal. I am so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I have fond memories of both of your parents and time spent at your house in Quincy. You have my deepest condolences at this time of loss.
Helen spent alot of time with us and our kids as neighbors in Edgewood. She was a wonderful woman. Sorry for your loss.
We were sorry to hear that Helen had passed away. Helen came in contact with the Friends of the Log Cabins through one of our members. While still living in her home she generously donated some items for us to either sell for a fundraiser or use in the Log Cabin Village. She was a generous kind lady.
Sending condolences to the family. I met Helen while working at Bergners Dept Store doing alterations. We became friends as well. She was always a pleasure to work with. I lost track of her about 10 years ago. One of my very favorite customers