Obituary
Helene Ann Keller, age 92, née Lips, passed away peacefully at her home. A devoted and loving mother, grandmother, sister, and lifelong social worker, Helene brought strength, compassion, and grace to every chapter of her life.
Born in Mobile, Alabama, Helene was the eldest child of Lena and Benny Lips. She attended the University of Texas and earned both her Bachelor and Master of Social Work degrees from the University of Missouri, later continuing advanced coursework at institutions including Harvard and Northwestern. During her time in Texas, she met her beloved husband, Dr. Robert Keller, at a Hillel dinner in Austin. Together they built a life grounded in love, learning, and the enduring importance of family.
Helene dedicated her professional life to helping others with insight and empathy. She served as a social worker and counselor at Highland Park High School for 27 years, where she was admired by colleagues and generations of students alike. Following her retirement, she remained deeply involved in her community as a volunteer with the North Shore Senior Center, The Grand Times, and the Highland Park High School archives.
Helene will be remembered for her resilience, kindness, empathy and unwavering devotion to those around her. She was extraordinarily bright, yet profoundly humble, never seeking attention or praise. Her warmth, youthful spirit, sense of humor and intellectual curiosity endured through every season of her life. She brought wisdom, empathy, and vitality to her relationships, and her calming presence left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
She was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Robert Keller, with whom she shared over 27 joyful years of marriage. Devoted and loving mother of Steven Keller. Cherished grandmother of Joshua, Benjamin, and Lauren Keller and loving sister of Irwin Lips. Helene was also a treasured aunt, cousin, sister-in-law, and friend to many.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Niki and Angi for their loving care and dedication in Helene's final years.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Anti-Defamation League (www.adl.org or the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum (www.ushmm.org).
Chapel service Thursday, July 24, 2025, 10:00 AM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. For service details, a link to view the service online, shiva information, and to leave condolences, please visit www.shalommemorial.org or call (847) 255-3520.