Helen Wolle, GSEHD MA ’61, EdD ’79, died on Dec. 9, 2013 in Newport News, VA following a brief illness and a long and fulfilling life. She was 94.
Wolle was born in Aberdeen, SD, the eldest of three daughters of Chris and Ethel Osbey. She grew up in Sioux City, IA, where she graduated from Morningside College. She married her high school sweetheart, Dr. C. Packard Wolle in 1940. They moved to the Washington DC area in 1952, where they raised their four daughters. The Wolles were active in all segments of the community, supported each other’s careers and were devoted to each other and the raising of the four daughters. Packard Wolle died in 1970.
Wolle was married to Howard Mobley from 1978 until his death in 2009. In 2011, Wolle moved to Warwick Forest, Newport News, VA to be closer to family. Wolle’s service to the community included the Annandale Women’s club (founding president), Hope Lutheran Church (charter member), Peace Lutheran Church, ACCA (Annandale Christian Community for Action), PEO (Philanthropic Education Organization, AAUW (American Association for University Women and GW.
She was the recipient of many honors, including Mother of the Year (state of VA), Distinguished Alumni (Morningside College), and the GW Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award. Wolle’s career included the positions of guidance counselor at Annandale High School, assistant director of continuing education for women at GW and work with the Center for Dispute Resolution at George Mason University. Her academic achievements include an MA and an EdD from GW.
Wolle is survived by her 4 daughters Starr Mayer (Charles), Cheryll Brounstein (Dale), Pamela Pierce (Bob) and Angela (Cathy Law), 4 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren two sisters, Winnie Pickering and Jeannie Gillespie, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service is scheduled for March 15 at 11:00am at Hope Lutheran Church, 4604 Ravensworth Road, Annandale, VA. If you plan on attending, please contact Angela Wolle: [email protected].
