Helen Doris Dukes

Helen attended Douglas Carver Blackshear for her elementary years and continued her education until graduating in 1967. In February 1979, she married Clifton Dukes Jr., sharing a life built on love and dedication.

A gifted cook, Helen worked for many years at Walter’s Restaurant, Shrimp Boat, and Pojo’s, where her meals brought warmth to many. Beyond her work, Helen’s greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. She never met a stranger—she welcomed everyone with kindness, no matter their background, race, or past. Her heart was as big as her love for life.

Helen was known for her wisdom and no-nonsense advice. She often said, "Do it right the first time, you won’t have to do it again the second time." She also believed in mutual respect, reminding those around her, "You can’t be no better to me than I can be to you."

She is preceded in death by her parents Jack Johnson Henderson Sr. and Lucille Ransom.

Helen leaves behind a legacy of love and strength through her children, Terry "Rabbit" McDade, Todd "Lababy" Henderson, Curtis Leon McDade, Helen Louise McDade. She was also a proud and loving grandmother to Dominique "Balay" McDade, NaTasha Renee Smith and her husband, Cameron, Bianca La’Shay McDade, Yufus La'Brent McDade, Destiny Re’Vae McDade, Bre'Asia D'Shay McDade, Anthony D'Wayne McDade.

Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A visitation for Helen will be held Monday, February 17, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Odessa Funeral Home, 1700 North Jackson, Odessa, TX 79761. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, February 18, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Odessa Funeral Home.