Helen T. Harrell

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our dearest Mother and Granny, Helen Thomas Harrell, on December 18, 2014 at the age of 91. Born in Ahoskie, N. C. on August 11, 1923 to the late Walter and Leona Thomas, she was predeceased by her loving husband, Hartsville S. (Pete) Harrell, daughter, Gail Bruns; brothers Ralph, Harris and Mac Thomas; sisters Mae Hall, Alma Trevathan, Mabel Harris, Annabell Briggs, Polly Bass and Bess Volhein.

She is survived by her sister Bert Ritchie of Falcroft, PA, daughter Deborah Donour and husband Fred; step-son Michael Harrell and wife Lydia; grandchildren William (Tommy) Tomlinson IV, Michele Goode-Bacon and husband Jesse, Westley T. Parker and husband Charles; great grandchildren Carter and Charlotte Goode, Tommy Tomlinson and Ethan Parker; her cat, Annie, and a host of nieces and nephews. There was never a home more welcoming and fun than Granny and Pa’s. Everyone should be so lucky to have such a safe haven presided over by the sweetest and most loving of grandmothers. To spend weekends exploring the woods behind the house and playing in the huge backyard with cousins, dogs and whoever or whatever was around was a slice of heaven. She was a woman of generosity, compassion, elegance and strength. She lived her life the same way she passed from it, with quiet dignity and grace. We were so lucky to have her and to be with her when she left. We will forever miss her sweet smile and soft touch and wish God speed to our dearest one.

The family would like to thank Dr. Speckhart, nurses Deborah, Donna, Jessica, Marissa, Peter and Ashley of Sentara Leigh Hospital (2nd floor) for their care and kindness to our mother and family.

A celebration of her life will be held at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 E. Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, VA on Sunday, December 21, 2014. Visitation from 1:30 to 3pm. Service at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Hope for Life Rescue, 610 Jack Rabbit Rd. #1, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodlawngroup.com