Helen Louise Walker, age 101, passed away January 23, 2026 peacefully with her daughters by her side at Bishop Drumm Nursing Home in Johnston. A special thanks to the staff at Bishop Drumm for guiding us through this difficult time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Helen was born December 20, 1924. She was a graduate of North High School and a long time member of Epworth Methodist Church. Helen was united in marriage in 1944 to Donald Earl Walker and they had four children. She worked at the ammunition plant during WWII, was a business owner and was an avid gardener. She also loved animals and was a member of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for homeless pets. Helen was a homemaker and loved to travel with her husband before his passing.
Helen is survived by her daughters, Judith (Dennis) Lumbard of White Oak, Iowa and Shari (Gary) Clayton of Grimes, Iowa; grandchildren, Tamara Stafford of Indianola, Iowa, Jeffery Deuel of Truro, Iowa and Clinton Parrish of Ankeny, Iowa; ten great grandchildren and six great great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 74 years, Donald, her sister, Dorothy Jean York, her sons, Harold Earl and Donald Earl II, her granddaughter, Peggy Sue Parrish and two great grandsons, Tristin and Dakota Parrish.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4821 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50315

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreSponsored