Helga Renate Reeves

Born in Leipzig, Germany, to Wilhelm Kurt and Elsa Elise Kiessling, Helga grew up with her brother, Joachim, who preceded her in death. In 1958, after marrying Herman Ray Smith, she left Germany to begin a new life in the United States—a journey marked by courage, faith, and devotion to family.

Helga was first married to Herman Ray Smith and later to George Frederick Reeves, both of whom preceded her in death. She later found lasting happiness with her husband, Jim Cryer, who survives her.

She is also survived by her children, Peggy Levantino (Roger Smith) of The Woodlands, TX, and Jeff (Alyssa) Smith of Conroe, TX; stepchildren, Lorri (Eric) Terkelsen of The Colony, TX, Rusty Reeves of Ohio, Angela (Gary) Lahodny of Columbus, TX, Robert (Maria) Cryer of Arlington, TX, and Linda Jo (Karl) Harnack of Bowling Green, KY; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and dear friends.

Helga cherished time with “The Kensington Way Ladies,” enjoyed relaxing with Jim and her dog Gigi while watching college football, and was known for her warmth, laughter, and welcoming spirit.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 17, 2025, from 1–3 p.m. at Zoeller Funeral Home in New Braunfels, Texas.

At the family’s request, memorial donations may be made in Helga’s honor to

The Wounded Warrior Project (https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/) or

The Humane Society of New Braunfels (https://www.hsnba.org/)