Brownsville, TX -Helen Rivera, 66, passed away Thursday, January 29, 2009, at her sister's home in Hayward, CA, after a four year battle with lung cancer. She was born on November 11, 1942 in Superior, Arizona to Phil and Josephine+ Bisi. Helen was the second oldest of six children. She had five siblings: Gloria, Phil+, Danny+, Kathy and Debbie. Helen married Francisco Rivera in Mexico City on November 18, 1970 and celebrated 38 wonderful years together. She had four children, Gregory, Francisco, Elena and Antonio. Her children provided her with five adoring grandchildren with two more expected this year. Helen was a spontaneous adventurer; born in Arizona, raised in California, married in Mexico and settled in Texas. She was a resident of Brownsville for 31 years. While in Brownsville, Helen worked at Montgomery Wards, Hanna Laura's Cookies and BISD food services as a cafeteria manager, where she retired after 17 years, she was well respected and adored by her staff and colleagues. Helen was a strong woman whose faith in God led her through the toughest of times. She served as a member of The Ladies of the Altar Society at St. Luke's Catholic Church. She opened her heart and home to many people and touched the lives of all who knew her. Although she will be missed, she will remain forever in our hearts. In honor of Helen a Holy Rosary will be recited at Thomae-Garza Funeral Home in San Benito on Friday, February 6, 2009 at 7:00 P.M. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at 10:00 A.M at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Brownsville. Interment will follow to Buena Vista Burial Park in Brownsville. Words of comfort can be sent to the family of Helen Rivera at www.thomaegarza.com Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Directors, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, TX (956) 399-1331.