Ridgeley, WV - With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Helen L. Petit (Senn), age 96, who peacefully went home to be with the Lord on March 1, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Helen was born June 13, 1929, the daughter of the late Katherine Senn (Clark). A gifted athlete from a young age, she graduated from Fort Ashby High School in 1947, where she was a standout basketball player and track star. Her determination and competitive spirit on the court and field were qualities that defined her throughout her remarkable life.

After high school, Helen attended business school in Washington, D.C., before moving to New York to begin a dedicated career with IBM. She later returned home and served in the business department at Sacred Heart Hospital. Known for her intelligence, discipline and unwavering work ethic, Helen earned the deep respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Helen's greatest joy was found outdoors on her beloved property along Route 28. The land she purchased and transformed was more than just a home — it was her legacy. She spent countless hours mowing, planting and trimming with pride and devotion. Neighbors and those who drove past were accustomed to seeing her outside tending her property, a task she truly loved. The strength and care she gave her land reflected the way she cared for her family: steady, protective and deeply rooted.

She found peace at home, spending quiet hours watching the birds at her feeder, working crossword puzzles, reading and playing solitaire. These simple moments of reflection formed the heart of her daily life. She also enjoyed playing bingo and visiting the casino, where her competitive spirit and bright smile were always present.

Helen was the last surviving member of her siblings, closing a beautiful chapter of her family's generation. She is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, William "Bill" Petit; and her cherished son, Robert "Bob Allen" Petit.

Her legacy of love continues through those she leaves behind. Helen is survived by her granddaughter, Kate; and her great-grandson, Ry. She shared an extraordinary and unbreakable bond with Kate. To Kate, she was more than a grandmother — she was her constant, her safe place, and her favorite person.

Helen was also extraordinarily proud of her great-grandson, Ry — not only for his academic success, but most importantly for his tender heart and gentle spirit. She believed he would carry forward the strength, integrity and quiet resilience of the Petit name, and that brought her immeasurable peace.

Helen's life was a testament to the beauty of hard work, the peace of a quiet afternoon, and the enduring strength of family. While she has moved on to her eternal home, the roots she planted along Route 28 and the love she grew in the hearts of those who knew her will remain forever.

The matriarch has laid down her earthly burdens. The wind will whisper her name across the hills. The sun will warm the porch she once sat upon. And love will keep her presence near.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing she has been welcomed home and reunited with those who went before her. Her faith carried her throughout this life, and now it carries her into eternal peace.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

You are deeply loved and will forever be missed.

A visitation will be held on Friday, March 13, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Scarpelli Funeral Home, P.A., 108 Virginia Ave., Cumberland, MD 21502. A memorial service will begin at 6 p.m., and interment in Fort Ashby Cemetery will be private.

Condolences may be left at www.ScarpelliFH.com.