Helen J. Forman

Helen J. Forman, RN passed away on Monday, December 7, 2015 at the Brandywine Hospital, Caln Township.  She was the wife of the late Jarrett N. Forman, Jr. with whom she shared 43 years of marriage.

Born in Ercildoun, Pa on the family farm affectionately known as "Old Home Place", Helen was the daughter of the late William E. Johnson, Sr,, and Blanche Jones Johnson.  She was a member of the Ercildoun Church of God in Christ.

Helen was educated at the Ercildoun One Room School, the James Adams School in Coatesville, and finally Coatesville Senior High graduating in 1939.  She did not let racial prejudice of the times stand in the way of fulfilling a lifelong dream of becoming a Nurse.  Helen matriculated to Saint Philip Hospital School of Nursing Medical College in Virginia, graduating in 1943.  She then returned to her hometown and began working at Atkinson Hospital, Jennersville Hospital and finally becoming the First African American Nurse at Coatesville Hospital.  In 1991, Helen retired from the Brandywine Hospital, OB/GYN Department celebrating 50 plus years in the Nursing Profession.

For many years, Helen enjoyed entertaining family, friends, co-workers and neighbors at family reunions, her Annual New Year's Day Dinner, and weekly Sunday evening gatherings at her home.

Helen was a charter member of the Southeastern Chapter of The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Club, Inc. which honored her in 1987 with a professional achievement award and again in 1992 with one of their highest awards  the National Sojourner Truth Meritorious Service Award.  In 1993, Helen was awarded for Outstanding Service to the Community by the City of Coatesville .

Helen is survived by one son Jarrett N. Forman, III of East Fallowfield; nephew John E. (Yogie) Johnson, Sr. of Sadsburyville who she affectionately called son number two; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends all of whom she loved dearly.  In addition to her husband and parents, Helen was preceded in death by her brothers Herbert Johnson, Preston Johnson, William Johnson, Samuel Johnson and James Johnson.

The family would like to thank the staff of Harrison Senior Living of Christiana, C2 unit for their care, helpfulness and generosity during Helen's stay.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 14, 2015 at 11am at the Ercildoun Church of Christ, 750 Doe Run Rd, Coatesville, PA 19320 followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery. Viewing at the church from 9am to 11am.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Wilde Funeral Home of Parkesburg.  Online condolences can be posted at www.wildefuneralhome.com