Helen S. Tavares passed peacefully in her sleep on April 16, 2023. She was born March 6, 1926 to James and Kikue Nayakama in Maui, Hawaii. She will be missed by her children: George Tavares Jr. (Jean) of Escalon, Sharon Tran (Manh) of Modesto, Paul Tavares (Sharon) of Ceres, Helen Ann Hiser (Donnie) of Merced and Paulette Tavares of Hawaii; 19 grandchildren, 42 great grandchildren, and 14 great-great children.

She was preceded in death by her sons; Russell Tavares, James Tavares and Clyde Tavares, her parents James K. Nakayama and Kikue Nayakama.

Helen moved to Farmington in 1960. She was a nurse at Pioneer Memorial Hospital. She ran a turkey ranch, then purchased the old Bender’s Bakery in the ‘70s and opened an eatery. She was known by all as “Mama T”, and loved by all who met her. Helen’s favorite holiday was New Years. There was always a party – all were invited to share her homemade sushi, fried rice, and many other delicious foods.

A Celebration of Life” will be held; May 27 at 2 p.m. at the home of George and Jean Tavares, 17471 Henry Road, Escalon.

The Escalon (Calif.) Times

May 3, 2023