Obituary of Helen Denise DeFreese

Warwick, NY

Helen DeFreese, a long-time Warwick resident passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at the age of 58.

Born on October 3, 1964, Helen was raised in the State of Tennessee and relocated to Warwick, NY 40+ years ago. Helen was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother who was always there when you needed her. She fostered many friendships and left love and light with all whom she encountered. To know her was to love her.

Helen worked at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Warwick for over 10 years, which suited her servant heart. In more recent years, Helen’s declining health never stopped her from helping others. She spread her love through her joy of cooking. Whether it be through a new recipe, a sugar-free dessert, or a world-famous jerky or venison dish.

Her family always remained Helen’s number one priority, and wrote her last name, DeFreese, as a badge of honor. Helen had a special relationship with her grandchildren, treasuring them, and embracing every moment that she had with them.

Survivors include her husband and “Honey” Daniel aka Brian DeFreese, Children: Mitchell Jacobsen, Shannon Coffil (Jose), and Alexis DeFreese, Grandchildren; Anthony, Shelby, Ahriyenne, Aubrey, Amare, and Jalin, Father John Erb and his partner Miss Donna, Mother; Phyllis King, and her husband Layne, Siblings; Bethany Erb (Dave Leutwyler), John Erb Jr, Charles Goliantly (Krista), as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Helen is further survived by her beloved four-legged child, Dolly.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 13, 2023, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at the Warwick Center- Mulder Chapel, 62 Warwick Center Road, Warwick, NY 10990. Visitation will also be held on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, from 10:00am to 11:00am. A funeral service will take place at the chapel beginning at 11:00am. Interment will immediately follow at the Warwick Cemetery, 94 Oakland Avenue in Warwick. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the family via mail: PO Box 74, Warwick, NY 10990.

Funeral arrangements are honorably entrusted to Zygmunt-Murtie Funeral and Cremation Service - 845-977-6127 or visit www.zmmemorials.com.