Helen Dale, a cherished pillar of her community and a beacon of kindness to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at Wesley House Assisted Living. Born on May 4, 1935, in Dallas, Texas, Helen's journey of 90 years was marked by a ceaseless dedication to family, faith, and friendship.

From the tender age of nine months, Helen called Bonham, Texas, her home after moving from Royse City. Her early life in Bonham set the stage for a lifetime of achievement and community involvement. A proud graduate of Bonham High School's Class of 1952, Helen's academic and extracurricular excellence was evident. She served as head cheerleader, excelled as valedictorian, and was a respected member of the National Honor Society. Her leadership and commitment to service were recognized when she became the first girl to receive the prestigious Torch Bearer Award in Camp Fire, an honor emblematic of her guiding light throughout life.

Helen's passion for children and education led her to teach pre-kindergarten at the First Baptist Church in Bonham, where she touched the lives of countless young minds with her warmth and wisdom.

A devout member of the Northside Church of Christ, Helen's faith was the cornerstone of her life. Her involvement in the church extended beyond Sunday services, as she actively participated in church activities and outreach programs that underscored her commitment to her beliefs and her community.

Helen's altruism shone brightly through her volunteer work. She dedicated many hours to Meals on Wheels, ensuring that the elderly and homebound received not only nourishment but also the warmth of human connection. Her service with the Pink Ladies at TMC Hospital in Bonham further exemplified her compassionate spirit, as she provided comfort and assistance to patients and their families during challenging times.

Beyond her formal roles, Helen's interests and hobbies enriched her life and the lives of those around her. Her presence was a gift to all who knew her, and her legacy of service, leadership, and love will continue to inspire those she has left behind.

She is preceded in death by her husband John Kenneth Dale, parents, William and Rosa Kuykendall, brother, Schuyler Kuykendall and his wife, Virginia, sister, MaryLu Griffith and her husband George, sister in law, Jeanette Logan and husband Billie, and nephew Dallas Kuykendall.

Helen is survived by her children, Judy Brewer and husband Donnie, Jeff Dale and wife Patti, Jim Dale, Jill Temple, Jan Woodruff and husband Mykol, Joy Morgan, grandchildren, Michelle Griffith, Michael Brewer (Brittany), Jenny Olvera, Katie Harris (Taylor), Schuyler Dale, Tyler Dale, Jesse Dale, Sam Temple (Rachel), Ellen New (Mark Allen), Ryan Woodruff (Mandy), Ashley Woodruff, Jani Taylor (Hunter Wood) great-grandchildren, Logan Griffith, Wyatt Brewer, Brody Olvera, Micah Olvera, Preston Harris, Drew Harris, Pierce Keenum, Mila Temple, Rori Temple, Hayes New, Harris New, Holt New, Henley Wood, sister in law, Karen McCraw and husband Bob, and many nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to thank the Wesley House for their wonderful care and support. 

Please join the family on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 2pm at Wise Funeral Home Chapel with visitation 1hr prior. Burial will follow at Moore's Chapel Cemetery in Bonham.