Helen Elrod

Helen P. Elrod, daughter of Helen and Basil Paczolt, passed away peacefully on May 19th, 2026, surrounded by her daughter, granddaughter, and friends she made at CareOne in Wayne at the age of 96. She is survived by her three daughters: Lisa Elrod, Laura Elrod, Beth Zanetti, son-in-law: John Zanetti, and five grandchildren: Reed Stewart, Steven Stewart, Natalie Zanetti, Emily Zanetti, and Kimberly Zanetti. She is predeceased by her beloved husband Terrell (Terry) Elrod, her son Terrell (Terry) Elrod, her brothers, Charles and Stephen Paczolt, her sister Mary Farrar, her half-brothers, John and George Paczolt and her half-sister Olga Foley.

Helen was born on July 14th, 1929, in Johnstown, PA. She spent the beginning of her life in Johnstown, before moving to Washington D.C. where, as a young adult, she worked as a secretary. There she met her husband, Terry, and together they started their family in Wyckoff NJ. Several years later, they moved to Santa Barbara Ca., where their youngest daughter was born. The family eventually returned to NJ and settled in West Caldwell, where they bought a home, raised their children, and created lasting memories.

Helen had an immense love of books and further educated herself through reading. She loved jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles and was always up for a game of scrabble. She was also passionate about beautiful clothes; she loved to shop yet never paid full price and had a knack for spotting a bargain. She was also an accomplished sewer who enjoyed making clothes for herself and her daughters. Helen was renowned within her family for her elaborate and festive holiday cooking, taking great pride in preparing memorable ethnic meals that became a treasured family tradition. Family and friends looked forward to the gatherings she hosted, where food, laughter and togetherness were always abundant. Later in life, Helen dedicated much of her time to Messiah Lutheran Church, where she worked in the administrative office and actively participated in the congregation. She was also deeply devoted to her grandchildren, who brought her great joy and held a special place in her heart. She treasured every moment spent with them, and they will forever cherish the love she gave them and the memories they shared.