Obituary of Helene Frances Forcier

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Helene Frances Forcier, 70, of Phoenix, Arizona. Helene passed away on July 17, 2016 at Indiana University Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. Helene was born to Jack Epstein (deceased) and Rose (Susnick) Epstein (deceased) in New York City, New York on June 17, 1946. Helene graduated from Arizona State University and earned a Bachelor's Degree in English and then pursued a Master's Degree in English to further her illustrious 38 year career as a teacher. Helene furthered her professional development with many Post-Master's education workshops and classes. Helene began her career, in 1969, as an English teacher at South Mountain High School directly out of college. It was at South Mountain where Helene confirmed that her vocation was her avocation. The Glendale Union High School District noticed Helene's talent and from 1973-1980, Helene taught English at Greenway High School. In 1981, Helene taught English at Cortez High School and in 1982, she transferred to Washington High School and spent the rest of her career there, retiring from education in 2007. Helene changed many lives; in 2000, she was the founding sponsor of the Washington High School Interact Club, a community service organization sponsored by the Sun City (AZ) Rotary. This Interact Club is notable across the United States as well as internationally as being the largest active club in the world. With nearly 300 members, this club that Helene started over 15 years ago completes over 100 service projects every year. For this remarkable commitment to service above self, Helene was made an honorary Rotarian and was named a Paul Harris Fellow, the highest honor bestowed by Rotary International. Throughout her career, Helene mentored countless teachers and inspiring teachers who worked with her. In addition, she served as Head Teacher/Principal for Glendale Union High School District night school and summer school for many years, providing opportunities to thousands of high school students in an alternative setting. Helene was a strong believer in always pursuing an education. Helene enjoyed reading, shopping, visiting with friends, and, above all else, spending time with family. Helene is survived by her life-partner of 53 years, Jay Stanley Forcier of Phoenix, AZ, Son, Jack William Forcier of Phoenix, AZ, Daughter, Amybeth Elise Hash of Martinsville, IN, Son, Jeremy Michael Forcier of Bloomington, IN, Son, Jeffery Howell Forcier of Phoenix AZ, Grandson, Dylan Jeffery Forcier of Phoenix, AZ, Brother, David Blakey and Sister-in-Law, Adele Blakey of Phoenix, AZ. Other survivors include Helene's Son-in-Laws William Roberts of Bloomington, IN, Glen Hash Jr. of Martinsville, IN and Daughter-in-Law Meagan McGuire-Forcier of Phoenix, AZ. Helene's family is holding a "Celebration of Life" memorial service in the Auditorium at Washington High School on Saturday July 30, 2016 @ 4 PM. Opportunities to share memories and stories about Helene's life will be provided. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the scholarship fund in "Helene Forcier's" name for individuals who want to pursue teaching as a mission, just like Helene did. Donations can be made to Washington High School 2217 W. Glendale Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85021.