Mary Helen Hennessee

Helen’s humble beginnings helped to enrich her life, develop her brilliant mind and instill a strong work ethic. She was the first in her family to graduate with honors from Morganton High School, and doing so while working part-time at the Mimosa Insurance Agency with her mentor Paul Cash. Following graduation, Helen started working fulltime at Mimosa as a bookkeeper. Years later, she featured in a news article that is displayed to this day on a wall at the office.

Helen and her husband James Patrick moved to Huntingdon, TN, where she became the Secretary of First Baptist Church. Helen was so admired and respected that the church held a “Helen Hennessee Appreciation Day” in her honor. While living in Morganton, Aunt Helen and Uncle Jim joined Mt. Home Baptist Church. There they shared many years of spiritual blessings and happiness with their church family. Helen also attended Snow Hill Methodist with her sisters to honor the Carswell Family Mother Church.

Along with her parents, Helen is preceded in death by her husband Jim; three sisters, Emma Lee “Jackie”, Inez and Winnie; and a brother, Reid “Buddy”.

Those left behind to cherish Helen’s memory include four nieces, Patsy, Judy, Lorene and Becky; and a nephew, Doug. Also surviving are numerous other relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends Friday afternoon, February 11, 2022, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Kirksey Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm in the Chapel of Kirksey Funeral Home with the Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. Private graveside rites will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery.

The family suggests memorials be made to Mt. Home Baptist Church or Snow Hill Methodist Church.

Kirksey Funeral Home of Morganton has the honor of serving the family.

Face masks and social distancing is requested.

On-line condolences can be made at www.kirkseyfh.com