Helen Louise (Black) Houser

Helen L. Houser of Charlestown, WV, and formerly of Damascus, MD, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 25, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herb Houser, who passed in March 26, 2006, after 49 years of marriage. Their lifetime together was filled with laughter and love, sometimes shenanigans, and they were the best dancers at every event they attended. Helen enjoyed attending auctions and setting up displays at their antique stores. She retired from the Department of Energy in 1987.

Helen’s children and grandchildren were the light of her life. Her love was like a shining beacon, and her guidance supported them through the joys and heartaches of life. She is survived by her children, Todd Houser (Kim) of Clarksburg, MD, and Tonya Rowe (Marty) of Hagerstown, MD. She dearly loved her grandchildren, Haylie Houser, Peyton Meadows, Kassidy Meadows, and Anthony Houser. Her influence on her family is an indelible and everlasting blessing.

Born on July 29, 1938, in Morristown, TN, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Kathleen Black. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Gene, Gus, and Paul Black, and two sisters, Dorothy Poe and Patsy Back. Helen loved to share stories of her childhood.

She is also survived by one sister, Betty Possidente (John) of Baltimore, MD; brother-in-law, Bill Houser (Katherine); sister-in-law, Connie Phillips; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Helen enjoyed spending time with her family. She had a passion for reading. She recorded every book she read, over 100 every year, printing the date and her initials in each book. She loved playing dominoes and was very competitive, always ready for a game with family. She also loved working on word finds and kept meticulous records of each one she completed. She really enjoyed her landscaping and loved birdwatching. She delighted in every bird that came to the feeder. She was a caring and grateful person, known for giving the very best hugs. Thoughtful and kind, she always remembered birthdays and anniversaries and made everyone around her feel special.

Helen’s family will celebrate her life at a later date. The support of Washington County Hospice was invaluable through Helen’s last days. If you would like to express condolences, please consider making a donation https://hospiceofwc.org/giving/donate-now in lieu of flowers.