Sarah Jean Helterline, was born in Westerly, Rhode Island on February 6, 1985 to Robert Helterline and Christine Helterline (nee Olson). She attended the Block Island School, where she was greatly influenced by her teachers, and Black River High School of Ludlow, Vermont graduating class of 2003 with Honors.

Sarah enjoyed varsity soccer, downhill skiing and the snowboarding team. She participated in the National Outdoor Leadership School program, attended Penland School of Crafts, and won awards for her mixed-media artwork. Growing up she wanted to be a veterinarian, as she loved her cats Gray Feather and Wispy, and her horse Rojo.

Sarah enjoyed her time with Rustic Rides, caring for the animals and as a trail guide. She traveled with her Aunty Jill, and spent time living and working on Hawaii. While on Block Island she worked in customer service, and was employed by and partnered with Danielle, Liz, Bill, and the Howarths.

Sarah is survived by her beloved David Robbins of Block Island, father and mother, grandparents Norma Jean and Harold Blair, sister Erica Helterline, brother David Helterline and sister-in-law Mona, brother Travis Helterline, and niece Emily. She is also survived by her: aunts and uncles Lee, Mark and Celeste, Jill, Jeffrey, Tom and Jude, and Richard; cousins: Christopher and Julie and nephew Gavin, Matthew, Wyatt and Kathryn, Gina, Sky and Haley; companions: Honey Bear, Eureka, and Marvin. Tom Koch and Jeff-O were guiding influences. Family welcoming Sarah into heaven include: grandfather Edward J. Olson, grandparents Olive and Leo Helterline, beloved cousin Matthew Helterline, and Anne Olson.

Sarah was a creative and independent free spirit who loved nature. She followed her moral compass, and was quick to take issue with those that she found to be self-serving or less than truthful. Financial wealth and possessions mattered little to her. Instead she found value and satisfaction nurturing those deserving that were weak or less fortunate. She was truly an 'old soul,' wise beyond her years, yet often still as a child. Sarah greeted all with a warm smile and a big hug that was so inviting. She was a caregiver to many and touched countless lives. Her bright light still glows in the hearts and memories of those that knew and love her.

There will be a gathering in memory of Sarah Jean this Sunday, January 29 at 1:00 pm, at the Ocean View Gazebo at Old Harbor. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, tax-deductible donations to the organizations below in the the name of Sarah would be greatly appreciated:

The Block Island Rescue Squad
Beach Avenue
Block Island, RI 02807

The Mary Donnelly Fund
(earmarked: 'Mary D. Fund')
P.O. Box 323
Block Island, RI 02807

Humane Society - Marvin Fund
Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Rhode Island SPCA
186 Amaral Street
Riverside, RI 02915

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Lincoln Funeral Home
1501 Lonsdale Avenue
Lincoln, RI 02865
401-726-4117

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