James D. Barrett Funeral Home and Cremation

Helen Louise Force

A gentle soul who brought kindness and a sense of humor to her friends and family passed away peacefully at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, NY on April 1,2025 after a brief illness at the age of 94. She was born on February 23,1931 to the late Robert Weld Whitford and Dorothy Clark Whitford of Almond, NY. Helen’s life was marked by her unconditional love of her family, her love of nature, the great outdoors and an always adventurous spirit. Helen’s legacy will live on through the memories she shared with loved ones and the impact she made on those fortunate enough to know her. Whether capturing breathtaking landscapes on her many walks, planning meticulously detailed camping trips or simply sharing a cup of coffee and a conversation with a friend, Helen’s genuine and caring nature touched the hearts of many. Helen held positions at Sears Roebuck Company in Hornell, NY and San Diego, CA as well as the Town of Hammondsport, NY, American LaFrance Company of Elmira, NY and F.M. Howell of Elmira, NY. She was predeceased by her husband Norman Carl Force Sr., former Chief of Police in Hammondsport, NY, her sister, Genevieve Lewis (Darwin) of Lockport, NY, her nephew, Dwight Lewis (Debra) of Loudonville, NY, her cousin, Carl Clark (Reva) of Andover, NY and her longtime friend, Barbara White of Watkins Glen, NY. She is survived by her step- children Sheryl Force of Cleveland, OH, James Force of Newport, RI, Jayne Force and Norman Carl Force Jr. both of Elmira, NY, her nephew, Ronald Hubbard (June) of Laguna Niguel, CA, and longtime friends, Grover White of Watkins Glen, NY and Edward and Debra Hubbard of Orange, TX. A Family Gravesite Memorial will be held at a future date at Fitzsimmons Cemetery in Southport, NY.