Helen Fishback

It is with profound sadness but heartfelt appreciation for a life richly lived that we announce the passing of Mrs. Helen Marie Fishback on September 21, 2024, at the age of 97.

Born on April 10, 1927, to Joseph and Marie Monasky in Binghamton, New York, Helen illuminated the lives of many with her passion for the arts, education, and faith.

Helen pursued her love for literature and drama at Misericordia University in Dallas, Pennsylvania. Her talents led her to the illustrious stages of Broadway and off-Broadway, where she performed alongside legends such as Paul Newman, Gloria Swanson, and Rod Serling. Her experiences in theater not only showcased her artistic prowess but also deepened her lifelong appreciation for live performance as a profound art form.

In 1950, Helen married the love of her life, Cliff Fishback. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Fort Lauderdale in 1951 and later settled in Plantation, Florida, in 1965, where they became cherished members of the community. Their marriage is a testament to enduring love and partnership, spanning 68 wonderful years. In retirement, Helen traveled the world with her beloved Cliff until his passing in 2018.

Helen’s passion for literature and the arts found a new stage in the classrooms of Plantation High School. As a beloved English and drama teacher, she dedicated decades to inspiring students with a love for reading, writing, and the classics. She emphasized the importance of grammatical precision and eloquent expression, while instilling in her students an enduring appreciation for the power of words as well as the magic of theater. Her theatrical productions at Plantation High School remain legendary for all who experienced them. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, many of whom carry forward her teachings and passion.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Helen was a parishioner of St. Gregory’s Catholic Church. Her spirituality served as the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and relationships. She embodied the virtues of compassion, generosity, and unwavering devotion, nobly serving as a faithful servant of God.

Helen cherished her role as a loving mother to four children: Mike, Jean, Fred, and Tom, as well as an adoring grandmother to seven: Jon, Julie, Tommy, Jackie, Joey, Janine, and Janelle. She is a great-grandmother of three: Leila, Sadie, and Sienna. She now reunites with her firstborn son, Mike, who passed in 2003. Her family was her greatest joy, and her nurturing spirit extended beyond her home, embracing friends, students, and neighbors alike. All who knew her will greatly miss and fondly remember her.