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Helen Wallace Obituary
Helen was born in Smithfield, North Carolina on November 15th, 1937, to Ruth Hood Baker and Benjamin Alton Baker. She graduated from St. Mary's Junior College in 1958 and enjoyed taking additional classes from Campbell University in her free time. Helen was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, Robert Franklin Wallace (Bob) and her son Robert Franklin Wallace Jr (Frank).
After spending many years as a homemaker and mother, Helen ran the North Carolina License Plate Agency in Smithfield. She loved this work and was always happy to help everyone who came through the door. For many years, Helen volunteered and worked for Johnston Health Hospice, and she also served on the Hospice board at the hospital. She also was a long time volunteer for the Rex Hospital Cancer Center. Helen loved to play bridge, go to plays and listen to music.
One of the biggest joys of her life was cooking, and she was most proud of the "Nana's Favorite Recipes" cookbook that her daughters published in 2017. Helen was the happiest when she was in her kitchen preparing a large meal for friends and family.
Helen is survived by her two daughters, Ruth Wallace Welch (Carl Welch), and Helen Tye Wallace (Joey Worrells), as well as her sister Candy Baker Furr (Jim) and brother Ben Baker (Janet) and her daughter-in-law Maureen Wallace Cunningham. Helen has 7 grandchildren, Robert Wallace (Courtney), Jon Wallace, Caroline Mills, (Alex), Maggie Wallace, Carrie Moss, Carson Vale (Nate) and Ben Pierce, as well as 3 adorable great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, all of whom enjoyed many wonderful meals that she prepared over the years.
Helen's funeral will be held at Centenary United Methodist Church in Smithfield, NC on September 10th at 1pm. Visitation with family will follow in Wesley Hall at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to SECU Hospice House located at 426 Hospital Road, Smithfield, NC 27577.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Dawson Holt
September 12, 2024
Helen Hood was the daughter of Ruth Baker, my kindergarten teacher, so I have known her since I was a little boy. Frank & I were the same age, so we grew up together in school. I remember spending many a good time at their house swimming in their weather proof pool when we were growing up. The Wallaces are great folks and a wonderful family. Sending good thoughts & prayers for strength during this difficult time.
Tina Cash
September 7, 2024
I met Helen when I came to work at Johnston Memorial hospital in 1994. I was introduced to her as TV news person from WRAL TV. Helen said well I´m sorry, I´ve never seen you. I don´t watch much TV. And I said well I don´t come here and watch you work either so I guess we´re even! We both had a good laugh &became best friends & that has never changed.
Thomas (Tommy) Brock Stevens
September 5, 2024
Helen was one sweet lady..I have known her since She was a little girl, Helen Hood Baker...She will surely be missed...GOD´s PEACE to her family...
Linda
September 4, 2024
Sympathies for Helen's family and friends. May her soul rest in peace.
We were North Raleigh NC neighbors. Helen was an excellent cook (delicious brownies), friend to all who met her, and she would always help those who needed her words of wisdom.
She will truly be missed. Love you Helen.
Linda H Archer
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Mary Jevitt
September 4, 2024
As you know, she was the joy of Winchester Pointe neighborhood. Beloved by all for her wit, beauty, graciousness, and hospitality, she welcomed me with open arms 10 years ago when I moved in. I'm heartbroken for the family over this loss. Being from Chicago, I used to text her with tidbits about the Wednesday night NBC "Chicago shows" that we love. She is already greatly missed. Love to her whole beautiful family at this sad time.
Jayne Bartlett
August 27, 2024
The sweetest lady, and amazing cook! I´ll never forget the dinner we had at her house. She will be missed!
Anne Mallard Anthony
August 27, 2024
Helen and I grew up in our Smithfield neighborhood together and remained close friends always. I loved her dearly and recently shared fun memories with her. She will be missed immensely by her family and friends.
Anne Anthony
Sylvia Early
August 27, 2024
Helen was my dear friend for many years. We shared life´s journey. She loved PF Chang´s and we had many lunches there over the years. She always brought her delicious brownies or chocolate chips cookies to share. I will love and miss her forever.
Sylvia Early.
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