Helen was born in Amarillo, Texas November 25, 1927 to the late Horace Irby and Eula May (Ownby) Hudson. She married her high school sweetheart, Cecil Bartel on April 8, 1948 in Amarillo, Texas and he preceded her in death on August 31, 2005. She was also preceded in death by her two brothers, Harold and Jim Hudson.
Helen grew up in Perryton, Texas and graduated from Perryton High School in 1945 where she was involved in athletics, student leadership and cheerleader. After high school she attended Baylor School of Nursing where she earned her nursing degree as a Registered Nurse (RN). Helen trusted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at a young age at First Baptist Church in Perryton. After moving to Grand Prairie in the 50’s, she joined First Baptist in Grand Prairie where she served as Beginner Coordinator, taught young married couples and taught high school Sunday School. She was active in the youth ministry while her kids were in high school and became a “second mom” to many. Following a youth-led revival in the early 70’s, she was involved in starting the True Vine Coffee House ministry which was responsible for leading many youth to Christ and discipling them in their early faith. In 1975, she and her husband were instrumental in starting Believer’s Bible Church (which was later named Grand Prairie Bible Church) with a passion for teaching the Word of God. As a founding member of Grand Prairie Bible Church, she served in many different areas of ministry including Church Librarian, Mothers Day Out teacher, women’s ministry leader, and many years teaching a Ladies Bible Class on Sunday mornings. Helen also had a passion for discipleship and mentored many young women seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus. After raising her four children, Helen returned to the nursing field where she worked at Methodist Hospital in Dallas, and was quickly promoted to Assistant Head Nurse. She ended her nursing career as the Office Nurse in a Family Practice clinic with Dr. Colip and Dr. Dell in Grand Prairie. Helen enjoyed traveling with her family, attending school functions with her children and grandchildren, and celebrating birthdays with her family. She will probably best be remembered for her infectious, joyous laugh.
Helen is survived by her children, Danny Ray (Brenda) Bartel of Wichita Falls, Texas, Gary (Pat) Bartel of Grand Prairie, Texas, Janis (Bill) Burdett of Midlothian, Texas, and Dale (Traci) Bartel of Grand Prairie, Texas; eleven grandchildren; and twenty-one great grandchildren.
Pastor Bill Eubanks (retired) will officiate Helen’s funeral Saturday, May 30, 2020, at 10:00 am at First Baptist Church Grand Prairie. Seating for the funeral at the church will be in every other pew for the public due to pandemic guidelines.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, you consider making a donation to Helen’s favorite charity: Samaritan’s Purse
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