Helen Bechtol (Nethers), age 62, of St. Louisville, Ohio, went home to be with the Lord after a long battle. She passed away at her daughter’s home in Utica, Ohio, at 6:30 a.m. on September 26, 2026, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

Helen was born to James and Lavina Nethers on February 1, 1964, in Newark, Ohio.

Following graduation, Helen married her late ex-husband, Jack Bechtol of Boston, Massachusetts. Shortly afterward, in 1987, they moved to Logan, Ohio, to be closer to Jack’s family and went on to have three children.

In 1998, Helen began the journey of raising her children as a single mother. She worked tirelessly over the years to provide for her children. Her greatest calling, however, was caring for others.

Helen spent her children’s adolescent years as a childcare provider. Many of the families she provided for became her chosen families. She loved, guided, worried about, and celebrated them, and considered many of them family long after the children had grown.

In 2008, Helen returned to her childhood hometown, where she worked for many years at Goodwill in Utica. There, she was known for her warmth, kindness, and passion for helping others.

When she was no longer able to work, Helen devoted her final capable years to homeschooling and caring for her grandson, Xavier, and for her beloved mother, Lavina.

Helen experienced profound heartache throughout her life, but she did not allow it to define who she became.

She chose love.

She brought warmth and sunshine into the lives of those around her.

Helen believed that family could be chosen, kindness mattered, and one person could make a difference.

She leaves behind a legacy measured not simply by the years she lived, but by the lives she touched.

Helen is survived by her children, Mandy Dawn Landis (grandson Gaberiel); Jacklyn Kate Bechtol (grandson Xavier); Nathan James Bechtol; and Paula Rose “Rosie” Bechtol; her dear friend, John W. Reynolds, who became family in every sense of the word. John was a beloved father figure to Helen’s children and remained a steady, loving presence throughout their lives; and many chosen children and grandchildren; and the family and friends she loved as her own.

She is also survived by her brothers, David (Pam) Nethers, Roger (Barb) Nethers, Michael (LeAnn) Nethers, and Neil (Vera) Nethers; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and many others who were blessed to call Helen family.

Helen was preceded in death by her mother, Lavina Nethers; her father, James Nethers; and her sister, Dixie Hysell.

Helen’s family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of Arlington Care Center for the love, compassion, care, and support they gave Helen throughout her final years and into her last days. Their kindness will always be remembered and appreciated.

Helen was love, laughter, sunshine, and second chances. She gave people a place to belong, a place to call home.

She made a difference.

She changed lives.

And in the lives of those who loved her, she changed the world.

Funeral services have been entrusted to Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N. 21st St., Newark, Ohio. Friends and family are invited to calling hours on Thursday from 6pm to 8pm and Friday from 11am to 1pm, funeral service to follow at the funeral home. Family and friends are welcome to attend the graveside service at the conclusion of the funeral. Helen will be laid to rest beside her mother at Eden Church Cemetery in St. Louisville, Ohio.

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