Honoring the Life and Legacy of Helena Elsie Collier Carter

With heavy hearts but deep gratitude for her life, we announce the passing of our beloved Helena Elsie Collier Carter on the morning of February 18, 2025. She transitioned peacefully in her sleep at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Born on October 21, 1932, to James Arthur and Charlotte (Smith) Collier, Helena’s life was defined by service. She was the heart and soul of our family—the matriarch who kept us together, the one we all turned to for wisdom, comfort, and unconditional love.

As a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Helena spent her life caring for others. She dedicated many years as a youth leader at Scioto Village Juvenile Correction Facility, where she mentored and guided young women, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. She was also a woman of deep faith, an active member of Second Baptist Church, and a proud member of the choir, where her beautiful voice lifted the spirits of all who heard her.

Helena’s greatest joy was her family. She poured love into every meal she cooked, every conversation she had, and every prayer she lifted. She made sure we always knew we were loved, valued, and supported. She truly was an angel on Earth.

She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory: her children—Sharlene, Kima, Debra, Owens Jr. (Lisa), James Gregory (Bobbie), Terri “Princess”, Halima, and Cherine “Nikki” (Greg); her grandchildren—Danielle (Kevin), Kila, Helena “Jo”, Princeton (Jackie), Indea (Chase), Charae (Daren), Ashla (Kody), Cassandra, and Jalen; 37 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-granddaughters; her honorary son Bruce Campbell; and a host of extended family and friends.

She is now reunited in Heaven with those who went before her, including her brother Arthur Gene, her son David Earl, and her grandsons George “Rodi” and Virgil.

A celebration of Helena’s life will be held on Friday, March 7th at Snyder Funeral Center, 101 Valleyside Dr. at W. William St., Delaware, Ohio. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by a service at 12:00 Noon. She will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery.

For those unable to attend, the service will be live-streamed at:

https://www.facebook.com/DelawareSFH

In Lieu of Flowers

If you would like to honor Helena’s memory, please consider making a donation in lieu of flowers. Contributions will help support final expenses and the legacy she leaves behind. Donations can be made here.

Your love, prayers, and support mean the world to our family during this time. Thank you for celebrating the life of a woman who meant so much to so many.