Helen Robinson

     Helen Rife Robinson, age 86, of Kennett Square, PA and a long-time resident of Swarthmore, PA passed away peacefully on Sunday March 3, 2024 at Kendal at Longwood in Kennett Square. She was the beloved wife of Douglas “Doug” Robinson, with whom she shared more than 61 years of marriage. Born in Chicago, IL, she was a daughter of the late S. Marvin Rife and the late Genevieve Rife.

     Helen graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor’s degree in home economics and earned her master’s degree in textiles from the University of Rhode Island. She worked briefly as a realtor before operating her own custom reupholstery business for many years.

     Helen will be remembered for her talent with artistic creations covering a wide range of media. She frequently endeavored to learn and to put into production a new form of art or a different process with various materials. She was an avid lover of plants and gardening and was a member of the Scott Arboretum and the Swarthmore Garden Club. She enjoyed her involvement with P.E.O., playing tennis, traveling, classical music, and trying out new culinary creations.

     In addition to her husband, Helen is survived by her son, Mark Robinson and his wife, Karen Robinson; and Helen’s granddaughter, Alexis Robinson, all of Swarthmore. She was predeceased by her son, Peter Robinson of Dallas, TX. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, any donations be directed to either P.E.O. https://www.peointernational.org/make-a-gift/ or the Scott Arboretum https://www.scottarboretum.org/support/

     A celebration of Helen’s life will be announced at a later point in time. Arrangements are by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square. To view her online obituary, please visit www.griecofunerals.com.