Helene M. Kiley

After a brief illness, Helene “Leni” M. Kiley, 80, a longtime resident of Lampasas, passed away at Rollins Brook Hospital on September 29, 2018. Helene was comforted and cared for by Angie Torres and Carmen Casturita. Helene was born November 18, 1937 in Zirndorf, Germany, the daughter of Andreas Tischer and Gunda Pflaum-Tischer. Growing up during World War II was not easy, and, due to the harsh conditions, experienced the tragic death of her younger brother, Franz. Her childhood experiences, especially the bombing raids on Nürnberg, would remain with her throughout her life. Helene married John Joseph Kiley (deceased) in Zirndorf, Germany, on September 9, 1956. A loving wife, Helene cared for their children through John’s tours in Korea and Vietnam. As a military wife, life was not always rewarding, but she was always supportive and by his side. The family moved from Germany to El Paso, from El Paso to Temple, from Temple back to Germany, and ultimately settling in Lampasas in 1966 where John served out his military career, and where their last child was born.     Although English was her second language, Helene did not let that stop her from meeting her neighbors. Helene enjoyed watching birds; her favorite being the red cardinal as she always thought it was her Mom sending a message from heaven. She could always be found sitting in her rocker on her front porch; but most of all, Helene enjoyed her family, or when her friends stopped by to reminisce. Helene is survived by her sons Michael Kiley, Martin Kiley, Matthew (Julie) Kiley, and Mark (Debbie) Kiley; daughters Maria Vasquez, Margaret (Ken) Fuchsel, Melanie Kiley; 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild (due December 2018). She is also survived by her sister Lisbeth (Allen) Bingham of Temecula, California She is preceded in death by her brothers, Manfred, Hans, Gunter, Franz and her parents. Visitation will be held Thursday, October 4th from 5:00pm - 7:00pm at Sneed Funeral Chapel. Funeral services for Helene M. Kiley will be Friday, October 5th at 2:00pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Lampasas.