Briggs, Helen SCHENECTADY Helen Powell Briggs, 102, passed away on November 15, 2013 at Kingsway Arms Nursing Center, a recent transition from her many independent years in her own home. She was born in Beacon, on September 20, 1911. She moved to Schenectady as a child, graduating from Schenectady High School in the class of 1929. Helen's keen intellect was exhibited in numerous ways throughout her life. She was foremost a loving and dedicated daughter, wife, and mother serving the physical, emotional, and intellectual needs of her family. Her curiosity and understanding of the benefits and pitfalls of dietary, nutritional and medicinal practices undoubtedly contributed to her long life and sustained mental acuity. In her later life, she applied her significant capabilities to a career in office management. Throughout her life, she maintained a unique ability to adapt and to help others adapt to life's difficult circumstances. Helen loved to travel and record her adventures that included destinations in Europe and Africa, as well as North America. She was proud of her English heritage and maintained records of the Powell family coming to the US and the family member's lives and activities. She was an avid reader with a wide range of literary interests spanning historical novels, non-fiction, best sellers and scholarly periodicals. In her later years Helen was an active member, historian and officer of the Schenectady Women's Club, and was active in the administration of the club's Scholarship Fund for the benefit of students of Schenectady County Community College. She was a member of the Woodlawn Reformed Church. A true celebration of Helen's life was held for her 100th birthday, where she was surrounded by her loving family and friends at the Gideon Putnam Resort in Saratoga Springs (as pictured). Helen was predeceased by her husband, Paul; her brother, Fred, and sister, Edna O'Brien. She is survived by her children, Audrey Champagne (David) of Greenfield Center and Paul Jr. (Kathleen) of Chapel Hill, N.C.; two grandsons, Blaise Champagne (Andrea) of Houston, Texas and Brett Champagne of Pittsburgh Pa.; two great-grandchildren, Constance and Paul; and several nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made in Helen's name to the Women's Club of Schenectady Scholarship Fund, c/o Schenectady County Community College Foundation, 78 Washington Ave., Schenectady, NY 12305. To share a memory or express online condolences, visit sbfuneralhome.com