Helen (Stavros) Spiro

Dear Spiro Family….. I recall the first time that I met Helen and John Spiro. Returning home from combat duty in Vietnam, in June 1970. During respite from the war, when time permitted, many conversations with young Paul (Bimbo) Spiro, combat radio operator, started to connect me with his family and friends, since my Dad was from that town, although I had never been there. The family was living at 100 Emeline Drive in Randolph. I promised Paul that I would visit his family, upon my return to the states, to let them know that he was O.K., and would be safely home soon. Little did I know that he had been writing to his parents about our connection in Vietnam. I arrived at the residence and approached the front door, and waited for someone to answer. Little did I know that visitors didn’t use the front door; rather, they always used the kitchen side entrance. I began to think that no one was home, and at that moment the door burst open, and this little lady came rushing out, and gave me a bear hug that overwhelmed me, to say the least; took the breath right out of me. Helen Spiro, with “Jarring” John behind her, welcomed me as if I were the prodigal son, returning home after a long absence; readily accepted as one of her Sons; with Tommy, Pete, and Paul. During later visits home on leave, to spend time with Paul and Jean; ‘Combat Call Signs’ of “4-3” and “4-4”, Priscilla and I would always take time to visit Helen and John. The feeling of being part of that family was evident each and every visit; Helen took us in from the very moment we met her. In later years, we continued to visit Paul and Jean, and always made a side trip to the retirement homes she dwelled in. When the terrible affliction of Alzheimers began to set in, there was always a twinkle in Helen’s eye upon our arrival. Paul would always relate that at the very mention of our names, she seemed to understand, deep down, who we were. Priscilla and I know very well that the good Lord has received her, as she received us, with an equally warm welcome into his loving arms. Our thoughts and prayers will always be with the Spiro Family, especially during this sad time of loss. She was loved by many, just as she loved her family and friends. Helen will be missed forever, but we are all the better for knowing her, and John, over the years. May God richly bless Helen Spiro, as she is now basking in his Glory, with her beloved husband, John. Lovingly….. “Honcho” Paul and Priscilla