Obituary of Helen Hattaway Wente

Helen H. Wente Helen Hattaway Wente, 86, formerly of Whip Road, Reston, VA, passed away on Monday February 10, 2014 at the Johnson Center, Falcon's Landing in Potomac Falls. She was the beloved wife of the late Cdr. David A. Wente, USN. Born in Mitchell, Glascock County, Georgia on October 3, 1927 the daughter of the late Clifford E. and Sallie (Hilson) Hattaway. She was the oldest of nine children. Helen was the first ever in her family to graduate from college in 1946 from Middle Georgia College with a teaching degree. She was a sixth grade teacher in the Brunswick, Georgia school system for many years before her marriage in 1952 to a career Naval Aviator. Being a Navy wife meant moving on average every 18 months in addition to raising her four children. She was active at all duty stations in the Navy wives support organizations until Cdr. Wente retired in 1972. Helen and Dave traveled extensively after retirement visiting with friends and family throughout the southern United States. Helen was an avid reader, enjoyed cooking and gardening. Helen is survived by her sons David F. (Darlene S. Fox), William G., and daughters Karen A. (Mark L. Brutsché), and Sharon L. Wente, plus four grandchildren; Charlie and Katie Brutsché, and Clayton C. and David P. Wente. She is also survived by her brother George (Amy) C. Hattaway and five sisters; Zuline (James) Pulliam, Peggy (Richard) Braun, Sara (Eugene "Skip") Joyce, Maria (William "BG") Gregg, and Jeanne (Lynn) Seymour. Helen was preceded in death by her husband and two brothers Billy (June) Hattaway and Hensley (Ella) Hattaway, and her daughter-in-law Haide Celeste Wente. Funeral Services will be held on April 1, 2014 at 9:00am at the Old Post Chapel, Ft. Myer, McNair Road, Arlington, Virginia and interment will follow at Arlington National Cemetery with her husband…Cdr. David A. Wente (Section #66, Grave # 2481). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you give to Fisher House, Wounded Warriors or the charity of your choice.