Helen Leath Abbott

Helen Leath Gleason Abbott, 102, of Greenwood, Indiana, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025. Born in Putnam County to Ben and Ressie (Maddox) Gleason, Helen graduated from the Methodist School of Nursing in 1946 and married Leo E. Abbott in 1948. She and Leo owned Abbott's Men and Boys Shop in Greenwood for 10 years and later enjoyed extensive travel. Together they shared a lifetime of love and adventure.

Helen always dedicated her life to helping others. She worked as a nurse and nursing instructor. She also devoted more than 40 years to the American Red Cross, serving as Director of Nursing and earning the Rose Sussman Award, the organization's highest volunteer honor.

As a 60-year member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization, an 82-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and a longtime member of Greenwood United Methodist Church, Helen was deeply involved in her community.

Helen's many interests included sewing, mushroom hunting, travel, and IndyCar racing. She dearly loved her family and friends and was well known for her love of life and adventurous spirit. She fulfilled her dream of visiting all 50 states, completing the journey with a trip to Hawaii in 2018 at age 95.

She is survived by her son GB (Dee), four grandsons Gabriel (Stephanie), Garry (Abbie), Blaise (Savannah) and Max, and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leo, her parents, sister, and brother.

The viewing will be held at Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service & Crematory, Greenwood Chapel, 481 W. Main Street, Greenwood on Friday, November 14th from 3:00-7:00pm. Services will be held at Greenwood United Methodist Church on Saturday, November 15th at 11:00am., with one hour of viewing prior to service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross or Greenwood United Methodist Church.