Helen was raised on a small dairy farm and had a lifelong love of animals and the outdoors. She and her husband, John, raised three children with a love for the same.
The family moved many times for John’s employment, living on the West Coast, in the Midwest and on the East Coast. They were always involved in service to others along the way. Helen’s career was primarily focused on early childhood education, including serving with a Head Start program on a reservation in South Dakota. Both Helen and John were involved with Habitat for Humanity in Virginia.
Helen was predeceased by her parents, Rusty and Grace; brother, Bruce; husband of 67 years, John; and son-in-law, Jim. She is survived by son, Jack and wife, Robin; daughter Lynn and husband, John; daughter, Cari (Jim); as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church, 2011 Brandon Ave., SW, in Roanoke, Va., on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Christ Lutheran Church, Feeding Southwest Virginia, 1025 Electric Road, Salem, VA 24154, enCircle Roanoke, 2965 Colonnade Dr. Ste 310, Roanoke, VA 24018 or the Rescue Mission (which includes 2nd Helpings) at 402 4th Street SE, Roanoke, VA 24013
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com
