Recognizing Helen Buyce's 104th Birthday

Floor Speech

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Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Helen Buyce, a remarkable constituent from my district celebrating her 104th birthday. Helen was born February 2, 1920, in Wells, New York, but now resides in Newtown, Pennsylvania to be closer to family.

Helen Dampier graduated from Wells Central School in 1938. She first started working as a housekeeper and then moved on to a job at General Electric during World War II working alongside Rosie the Riveter. During this time, she began to date Roy Buyce, who joined the United States Army while Helen waited patiently for her true love to return. On February 26, 1946, they finally were married and made their home in Wells, New York, where she lived until moving to Bucks County. While living in Wells, Helen worked for the United States Postal Service.

Helen and Roy spent many of their winters in Florida. She and Roy had their own vegetable garden, and she was well known for the pickles she made. Helen lost Roy in 1998 but stayed in Wells until she was 99. She kept active in the Wells community and enjoyed baking and cooking, especially for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She spent her time relaxing by reading her favorite novels. Helen's nightly ritual included watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, reading the newspaper, and doing crossword puzzles.

Since Helen first arrived at Buckingham Valley Rehabilitation Center, she has never missed a BINGO game. She loves getting her hair done weekly and never misses an appointment. She comes to all entertainment and makes sure to sit upfront. Helen relishes conversation with staff and always leaves you smiling.

Helen could not be prouder of her growing family in Bucks County, PA. Joan, her only child and her son-in-law, Jim, live in Yardley, PA. Her two granddaughters, Jenny, and Katie, having families of their own, live only short distances away. Helen is well known to be a wonderful mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt. She is affectionately known as ``Granny'' to 5 great-grandchildren.

To Helen, family is everything. Her daughter Joan calls her every evening and comes to see her regularly. On special occasions, Joan will help her FaceTime other members of the family so she can enjoy and participate in life celebrations.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to please join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations, sincere well-wishes, and all of God's Blessings to Helen Buyce on the celebration of her 104th Birthday.

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