Helen Ann Shoff

Helen Ann “B” Shoff, 82, pharmacist, resident of Fort Walton Beach, FL, died on September 4th, 2020 from severe dementia related complications.  She is survived by: her son, Charles James “Jim” Shoff; nieces and nephews, Susan Sherman, Jill Geletko, Kevin Hoge, and Jody Stevelak; great-niece and great-nephews, Susannah (Geletko) Sowko, Mason Sherman, and Robert Geletko;  sister-in-law, Marian Hecker; brothers-in-law, Bill Hecker and Ron Baker.  She was preceded in death by: her husband, Charles “Chuck” M. Shoff; son, John Eric Shoff; mother, Ann (Hancheck) Stevelock ; father, John Joseph Stevelock; brother, Joseph Stevelak ; and sisters, Susan Stevelock, Ann Stevelak, and Kay (Stevelock) Hogue; sisters-in-law, Mary Stevelak and June Baker; brothers-in-law, Harry Hoge and David Shoff.

“B” was born on September 1st, 1938 in Gates, PA as Helen Stevelock. She earned a Bachelor’s of Pharmacy degree from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA in 1960 and became a practicing pharmacist. Shortly thereafter she married Chuck Shoff who was drafted into the U.S. Air Force and stationed in Evreux, France.  Following France, Fort Walton Beach, Florida was their next assignment in the early 60’s.  “B” immediately became an active pharmacist again, supporting our local community, and ultimately owning two highly successful independent drug stores, Fort Walton Apothecary and Howard Brother’s Pharmacy.

“B” lived a full life both professionally and otherwise, participating in many philanthropic organizations as well as serving the community as a true professional in her craft.   Some of the organizations she belonged to include: membership in the Billy Bowlegs Pirate crew; the American Association of University Women, the Council of Catholic Women (as well as an active member of Saint Mary Catholic Church); local book clubs and a cooking club.  She also volunteered as a den mother, supporting her boys who both reached the rank of Eagle Scout.  “B” was an avid downhill snow skier and loved spending time on the slopes in Switzerland and France.  She was a prolific reader, bridge player and enjoyed traveling the world with close friends and colleagues.  She was always there to help anyone in need, regardless of status.  Undoubtedly “B” lived the short dash of life fully and always maintained a sense of compassion for all.  She will be dearly missed.

There will be a celebration of life to be announced in the future.   In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of “B” to either Saint Mary Catholic Church, Fort Walton Beach, FL or Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA.