Frankin S. Helsinger

Dr. Franklin S. Helsinger, was born on November 5, 1938, to Sam and Ida Helsinger in West Philadelphia, where he grew up above his father’s hardware store. He was a self-made man whose life was defined by intellectual rigor, professional achievement, deep curiosity about the human condition, and a drive to help people with their psychological issues.

Dr. Helsinger earned his Doctorate in Psychology from Temple University in Philadelphia. During the Vietnam era, he served his country as Chief of Clinical Psychology at the U.S. Army Hospital at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, holding the rank of Captain in the Medical Service Corps. His professional career spanned private practice, hospitals, universities, and schools, reflecting both the breadth of his expertise and his commitment to public service.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Helsinger was a public voice on mental health as both a courtroom expert and guest host of a talk show focused on psychological issues on Philadelphia’s WWDB-FM radio station. He was the founder and director of The Summit School, a groundbreaking series of special education schools in Levittown, Pennsylvania, through which he made a lasting impact on countless students and families. He was published in professional journals and newspapers and authored books such as: the nonfiction work Love, Truth & Psychological Security and the short novel The 41 Books.

An avid and lifelong reader, Frank pursued knowledge across disciplines, with particular interests in science, physics, religion, and philosophy. In his younger years, he enjoyed skiing, tennis, jogging, cigars, and traveling the world.

Franklin Helsinger is survived by his wife, Lorna Helsinger, with whom he shared 70 years of life together, celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary last year. He is also survived by his two sons, Gary Helsinger and Scott Helsinger (wife, MJ Schmidt); and his four grandchildren, Wynne Marcy (husband Caleb Marcy), Jana Helsinger, Ben Helsinger, and Sophie Helsinger.

Per Dr. Helsinger‘s request, funerary services will be private and held at the discretion of the family.