Helen Louise Rhodes

December 8, 1936 – May 29, 2026

Helen Louise Rhodes passed away on May 29, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of boundless love, education, and faith. Born on December 8, 1936, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, to Harry and Gladys Corey, Helen’s life was defined by her warm smile, her indomitable spirit, and a relentless drive that inspired everyone around her.

An unstoppable force who was always the first to extend a helping hand, Helen’s determination shone brightly throughout her life. She earned her GED later in life and bravely pursued higher education at the same time her two daughters were attending school. Armed with her impeccable shorthand skills, she was notoriously the best note-taker and the most requested study buddy in her classes. Her hard work culminated in a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Helen’s professional life was a true testament to her nurturing heart, as she spent her career serving her community as both a dedicated nurse and a beloved teacher.

Guided by her strong Catholic faith, Helen was an amazing mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was the absolute center of her world. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, perfectly sealed with her signature pinky promises. Her loved ones will forever cherish the memory of her reciting her favorite sweet poem at random, joyous moments throughout the day: "I love you a bushel and a peck, and a hug around the neck, and I'm talking in my sleep about Choo!"

Helen is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Harry and Gladys Corey, and her four brothers: Eugene, Junior, Roy, and Donald Corey.

She is survived by her two loving daughters, Risë (Randall) of Aztec, NM, and Laura Lea of Grand Junction, CO; her cherished grandchildren, Marise (Keith) Hobbs of Colorado Springs, CO, and Corey (DeLena) McEwen of The Woodlands, TX; and her five precious great-grandchildren, Corrise, Ian, Hudson, Everett, and Ella. She will be missed immensely, but her brilliant spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of the family she loved so dearly.