Helen (Elena) V. Yakli (nee Pizzi) age 86, of Painesville passed away peacefully at her home in Painesville on May 4, 2024. She was the daughter of Attilio and Antoinette (Igallo) Pizzi, born on July 13, 1937 in Italy,

Helen came to the United States through Ellis-Island from Santa Maria and Gicoma Compasso Italy.  She attended St Mary's School and graduated from Harvey High School in 1956.  Helen married Michael Yakli in 1961 and was the mother of Michael and Joseph. She worked in the retail business for many local stores and was recognized for her friendliness and helpfulness especially to the area Italians.

Helen was a volunteer in many local schools and hospitals.  She was a founding member of St Gabriel Church in Concord.  Helen enjoyed sketching, painting, sewing, baking, embroidering and gardening.

She is survived by her sons, Michael and Joseph (Sheila); brothers Tony Pizzi, Phil Pizzi, and Danny Pizzi; sisters, Lucy Fulaytar and Mary McKinney, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael in 2023, as well as by her father, Attilio and mother, Antoinette Pizzi; her baby sister, Antoinette Pizzi and brother John Pizzi.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM Thursday, May 9, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 242 North State St. Painesville.  Family and friends may call from 9:00 -10:30 AM at Spear-Mulqueeny Funeral Home, 667 Mentor Ave. Painesville.  Internment will take place at St. Mary Cemetery Painesville.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to St. Mary Church.

St. Mary Church
242 North State Street, Painesville OH 44077
Tel: 1-440-354-6200