Helen Smithson Obituary
It was a beautiful Sunday morning. She had made plans to go to church, which she loved, but instead she was called home to be with the love of her life, Wayne.
Helen was born in Safford, Az on July 27, 1938. She was the middle child to Henry and La Vona Pope. She is preceded in death by her parents, sister Maxine and husband Wayne. Survivors include her sister Linda and her large extended family who love and miss her dearly. Helen, was known for a gentle heart, a generous spirit and an unwavering kindness that touched everyone she met.
Helen's Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 7th at 3:00 PM, at The Centennial Ward building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 7871 W. Acoma Dr. in Peoria AZ.
The service can also be viewed at the zoom link for remote access https://zoom.us/j/91014236402
Helen will be interred at a private family service. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Phoenix Rescue Mission or Shriners Hospital in Helen's name.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Lance & Anita Gavin
February 7, 2026
Helen made us feel like family. We were only in the same ward for 6 months (25 years ago), but she made an indelible impression on our family. We affectionately call her "bucket of chuckles" as she is so much fun.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
13738 W Camino Del Sol, Sun City West, AZ 85375
Make a Donation
in Helen Smithson's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
People and places connected with Helen
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Helen's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Helen Smithson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
