Obituary

Helen Ferrell, 97, a resident of Charleston, WV, since 1967, departed this life on July 24, 2024.

Helen was born in a Wendish-German farming community on the outskirts of Thorndale, TX, to the late Adele and Oscar Melde. She was raised in the Lutheran faith and was a lifelong confessional Lutheran.

Helen was preceded in death by George, her husband of nearly 70 years; a sister, Pearl, and beloved niece, Rita. She was the last living member of the Thorndale High School Class of 1943.

She is survived by her children, Gloria, Patty, and Mike (Kim); grandchildren, Lori (Marty), Betsi (John), Kerry (Chris), Kirk, Alina, and Chris; great-grandsons, Sam and Bobby; niece, Judy; many great nieces and nephews; and caregivers, Hilda, Cat, Delores, Lana, and Barbara.

Helen was a homemaker and an excellent cook and seamstress. She enjoyed oil painting and growing flowers. She was active in her church across multiple states (TX, NC, VA, KY, WV). She taught special needs children, sang in the choir, and sewed church banners, lap robes and wheelchair bags. Helen loved dogs and chickens.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024, at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Charleston, WV, with Rev. Jamie Strickler officiating,

Visitation will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Paul Lutheran School, 101 N 3rd St, Thorndale, TX 76577 or St. Timothy Lutheran Church.

Special thanks are extended to the St. Timothy Elders and the Clinical Decision-Making Unit of CAMC- General for the exceptional care and comfort provided during Helen’s last days.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com .

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.