Helen Jane Roberts, a beloved and kind-hearted individual, passed away on January 5, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on October 28, 1936, Helen was a devoted and selfless woman known for her compassion and thoughtfulness.
Helen grew up on a dairy farm in western Olathe on College Boulevard. She was the youngest of four children, born to Jesse "Clyde" Van Winkle and Nora Kindred. Helen graduated from Olathe High School in Olathe in 1955.
Helen dedicated her career to serving others. She worked at the Johnson County Courthouse and later as a secretary at the UAW 1021 Credit Union. From 1990 to 2014, she served as an Interlibrary Loan Librarian at the Paola Free Library, where her patience and generosity were appreciated by all.
In 1956, Helen married her high school sweetheart, Lloyd "Neil" Roberts. Together, they raised two sons, Farell and Kelly Roberts. Farell, along with his wife Tammy, has three daughters: Jennifer, Nicole (Ben), and Caitlin (Michael). Kelly and his wife Hilary have a son, Walker, and a daughter, Madison. Helen was blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Wesley, Collin, Devon, Izac, Mariah, Rosalynn, and Kinleigh.
Helen had a passion for shopping, jewelry, and collecting painting and glassware. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, and nature, and she took great pleasure in cooking for her family on Sunday afternoons. Her creativity shone through in her stained glass creations.
Helen's gentle and loyal nature touched the lives of everyone she met. She will be deeply missed by anyone who knew her.
Funeral Services will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday morning January 13, 2026 at the McGilley & Frye Funeral Home 105 East Loula Street Olathe, Kansas. Interment in Olathe Memorial Cemetery 738 North Chestnut Street Olathe, Kansas. Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Monday evening January 12, 2026 at the funeral home.
Condolences may be offered at www.McGilley-Frye.com
