Helen Louise Hensley

Helen Louise Hensley, 98, of Broaddus was born October 28, 1924, to the late Horace and Maddie Brewer- Shipp, and passed away peacefully October 2, 2022. She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years; Harvey L. Hensley Sr., her son; Lonne G. Hensley, her only sibling; Bernice Aycock, and her beloved daughter-in-law; Debbie Hensley. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law; Rita and W.J. Smith of Broaddus, sons; Harvey Hensley and wife Paula of Houston, Danny Hensley of Deer Park, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Helen truly enjoyed spending time with family and friends, particularly (for 26 years) her dear bridge club ladies, so many of whom preceded her in death. She was a dedicated mother and rejoiced in telling everyone how proud she was of her children's accomplishments. She was a 50-year member of Eastern Star, South Houston Chapter 915. She loved her church, First Baptist Church of Broaddus, her pastor, Brother Wayne Barth and wife Diana, her Sunday School class and the wonderful congregation. She loved her doctor of many years, John Oglesbee and his wonderful wife/assistant Sharon. Helen had a genuine interest in people and made many life-long friends, her closest being Jean (Sutton) Wilkerson, recently deceased. Jean was so much more than just a friend- they shed tears and had so many enjoyable adventures together.

When they took early retirement in 1979, she and Harvey immersed themselves in the Broaddus community. Charles and Verdel Williams were among the first to warmly welcome them and the Williams' family has remained close over the years even after the deaths of their parents. Helen volunteered at the nursing home in San Augustine, helped pioneer the Rayburn Extension Club, with Myrtie Sheffield, and became a member of the San Augustine Library Board, which was headed at the time by Betty Oglesbee, a lady for whom she has always had the warmest affection and greatest admiration.

Per her wishes, no services will be held. Cremation will be handled by McNutt Funeral Home of Lufkin. Her memory faded, but her heart was full of love for the staff and ladies in the Memory Care unit at Colonial Pines Nursing Home. Throughout her life she " made a difference" and her passing will be a great loss to the world.