Helon Y. Lortz

Helon was born on December 28, 1925 in St. Louis, MO to Elizabeth and W. Ridgely Young, a St. Louis architect. During Helon’s childhood she lived in many European countries, including Austria, Switzerland, France and Germany, until her family returned to the United States due to the beginning of World War II. Upon Helon’s return home she attended Washington University in St. Louis. Later she and Sam married after he served his country in the United States Navy in the Atlantic Theater. Helon and Sam moved to Greenville in 1962 with Fouke Fur Company.

Throughout her life Helon traveled extensively and spoke several foreign languages. She loved nothing more than sharing experiences or hearing others’ stories and took a genuine interest in meeting someone and conversing in their native language.

Helon had a great wit, a ready laugh, and a lifelong love of fashion. She always left the house in a fully coordinated outfit down to matching sunglasses. She was known for her generosity and behind the scenes she helped many people. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who have met her.

Helon is survived by her daughter, Laura Edge (Jim); her grandchildren whom she adored, Lauren Johnson and Warren Johnson (Alex); her niece, Helen Youngblood; and her nephew, Jim Youngblood. Helon was also very close to Sam's brother and his wife, Bill (deceased) and Lainey Lortz.

A special thank you to her caregiver Perry Dunlap who always kept her laughing.

The family will hold a private celebration of life. To remember Helon, please pay forward an act of kindness.