Helena Reid Hanley

In her purest form, she was an educator, dedicated to teaching others. Her commitment to education and the freedom it unlocks was a mantra she lived by. She believed that knowledge was more than an accumulation of facts —it was a pathway to independence, possibility, and a life lived with purpose.

Helena devoted herself to helping others discover that possibility as a retiree from Phoenix Elementary School District #1, where she worked as an educator and reading literacy specialist for over 20 years. Through her teaching, her example, and the countless lives she touched, she gave freely of her wisdom, her time, and her heart. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, leaving lessons that will continue to be carried forward by those fortunate enough to have known her.

Helena leaves behind her two daughters, Joni Pless and Robin Hanley. Brothers and sisters Melvin Reid Jr., Angie Passaro and Torin Reid. Grandchildren Cheston Patterson, Tre Evans Jr, Asiah Evans, Talia Pless, Nehemiah Pless and Amirah Evans.

Services will be held on Friday, October 2nd 2026 at 11:00 AM at A.L. Moore Grimshaw Mortuary.