Ruby Frances Helton

We gather today to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of Ruby Frances Spindle-Helton (most knew her as "Fran"). She was born on November 18, 1931, in Sanger, Cook Co., Texas, and peacefully passed away in her home, on April 29, 2025, at the age of 93. Fran was the daughter of Joe Cephas Spindle and Annie Emaline Philpott-Spindle and was the 7th of 8 children. She was raised on a dairy farm in Valley View, TX. They also grew cotton and corn as well as a family garden.

Frances graduated in 1949 with a class of 81 students from North Texas Demonstration High School after moving from Valley View to Denton, TX. She worked in the cosmetics dept. in a drug store, then worked at Texas Telephone Co. as an operator. One of her favorite workplaces was at Chance Vought as the executive secretary to the Vice President for over 11 years. She married Carl (Sonny) Helton Jr. on January 1, 1953 and moved to Arlington, TX. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her children: Deborah Diane Collier (husband Larry) and Carl Keith Helton (wife Shameela).

In 1972 Carl and Fran started 'Concrete Cutters' which they ran from home in Everman, TX for 10 years. They sold Concrete Cutters and started a second career, 'C & F Enterprises', which they operated until 2002.

Many may not know that Fran was a big Dallas Cowboy fan. She was their biggest cheerleader and felt they wouldn't win without her help. You didn't dare plan anything on game day for we all knew where she would be, in front of the TV, calling plays and rooting them on with "Run, Run, Run!"

Carl and Fran were active members of First Baptist Church in Everman, TX. They attended Sunday school and church as well as participating in various functions and serving in many capacities.

Fran was preceded in death by her parents as well as her siblings: Clifton Horace Spindle, Opal Leona Ashcraft, Pearl Alice Alford, Carl Clayton Spindle, Floyd Marvin Spindle, Jewel Dean Odom, and Josephine Annette (JoAnn) Belz; nieces Vicki Schlemmer and Donna Trice and nephews Jeffery Watson and Howard Ashcraft. She was also preceded in death by her husband Carl, 14 years prior. They were married 58 years.

Fran's life was one of deep devotion. She poured her heart into every role daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her warmth, wisdom, and unshakeable love were felt by all who knew her. It was in these simple but meaningful moments that Fran created lasting bonds with everyone she met.

Frances is now reunited with her cherished parents, her siblings, and her beloved husband, who undoubtedly welcomed her with open arms. More importantly, she is also reunited with her Savior, Jesus Christ. While we mourn her loss, we take comfort in knowing she is surrounded by love once again, and that her spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

Her love continues through her grandchildren: Stephanie Stuckey (husband Jonathan), Justin Collier (wife Ayla), Sean Helton, and Shane Helton, as well as her great-grandchildren, Allie Stuckey, Noah Stuckey, Liam Stuckey, Abigail Collier, and Isaiah Collier. These lives reflect the values Fran instilled in them-kindness, perseverance, and an unwavering love for family.

Though Fran may no longer walk among us, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory is a light that will never fade. Rest in peace, "Fran" Ruby Francis Spindle-Helton. You were a blessing to this world, and your memory will be cherished for generations to come.

A visitation will be held at Laurel Land Funeral Home in Fort Worth Tuesday, May 6, 2025 from 12pm to 2pm with a funeral service at 2pm followed by burial and reception.