Helen Florez Avilez

Helen Florez Avilez, lovingly known to many as “Mamá Helen,” passed away on October 29, 2025, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, at the age of 75. Helen was born on October 11, 1950, in Exeter, California, the daughter of Tomás Ramires Avilez and Mary Luisa (Florez) Avilez.

Helen grew up in a large family, and whether through faith or needlework, she found her own way of giving to others. A devout Roman Catholic, Helen spent many years serving the parishes she attended in Woodlake and Visalia, California, where she taught catechism and mentored young people in youth ministry. Her faith was never quiet, she lived it. She believed in showing the love of God through small acts of service, kindness, and generosity.

Helen’s hands were rarely still. Crocheting was her love language. If you received one of her circular baby blankets, cozy beanies, ponchos, or any of her handmade creations, that was your silent induction into her circle of favorites. Helen’s many years as a librarian assistant helped to indulge her addiction to reading and listening to audiobooks and she passed on that love of books to her daughter and grandchildren.

Helen treasured her family above all else. She is survived by her daughter, Mikyla M. Fields and son-in-law Jobie L. Fields, Jr., along with grandchildren Raúl Tomás Phocas Andrade and Anthony Robert Gvtsvnule Fields, and great-granddaughters Gabriella Judith Audri Manly and Lorelei Evelyn Manly, and sisters Gloria (Avilez) Rodriguez and Sylvia F. Avilez.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her granddaughter, Rachael Emily Manly of Denver, Colorado; siblings Jessie F. Avilez, Mary Rachel Rodriguez, Victoria Avilez, Tomas S. Avilez, Louie F. Avilez, and Jose “Pepe” Avilez.

To know Helen was to be welcomed, whether through her time, her listening ear, or her handmade creations. Her legacy is one of steadfast faith, generosity, and deep love for her family.