Penny Suzanne Helms

Penny Suzanne Helms, born June 30th, 1941, died peacefully on April 18th, 2023. She was 81. She died of complications with pneumonia. She is preceded in death by her mother Lenora R. Doughty and father Herold Doughty. She is survived by her daughters Suzanne Michele Hassler and Jennifer Danielle Chesnutt, granddaughters Aubrey Muegge and Olivia Rodriguez.

As a graduate of Southwest Texas State Teachers College, she taught English in the Northside and Southside school districts. Penny was a proud member of the Alamo Dog Obedience Club, San Antonio, Texas between 1962 - 1966, with many ribbons won for her poodle Bebette’s Michelle. Ribbons include first place in the Austin Dog Obedience, The Bluebonnet Poodle Club and Houston Kennel Club (all in 1965). She spent her retirement caring for sheltered and rescued dogs and cats, including many poodles which were her favorite breed. Penny, a beauty, who loved to drive fast and drag race cars, was a feisty and ornery spirit. She had a witty sense of humor and the ability to remember everyone’s name in her orbit. Penny was loved and her family hopes she continues on in peace. Please send donations to the Animal Defense League of Texas in her name.