WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Helen Jane Woodall, age 88, passed away Saturday, January 10, 2026 at the Orchards of Three Rivers.
She was born June 28, 1937 to Howard J. and Sarah J. “Sally” (Toombs) Woodall in Mishawaka, the third daughter of six girls.
She was 5 years old when they moved from Niles to Howardsville (between Marcellus and Three Rivers) in 1943.
Helen grew up milking cows, feeding the pigs & other animals with her sister at a young age. As she grew older, she worked at everything on the farm with her dad & sisters & mom.
She graduated eighth grade from Howardsville Country School and from Three Rivers High School in 1956. She loved going to class reunions and meeting all her classmates.
After high school she worked at Three Rivers Hospital for a few years. She worked in Mishawaka at a plastic company for 5 years, coming home every weekend after living with her uncle and aunt. She had to quit when she started having health issues.
She then started babysitting for many families around including 2 different daycares.
After working at Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area for several years, she worked at Schoolcraft Elementary School until her retirement.
Helen loved hosting parties and hot dog roasts for all her nieces and nephews and families. She loved camping, fishing, mushroom hunting, and trips up north.
Helen & Joanie went on 2 cruises with friends.
She is survived by sisters, Peggy Bell Kuratko of Three Rivers, Judy (Ron) Stiteler of Donna, TX, and Betty Lucas of Three Rivers.
Eleven nieces and nephews; many great-nieces and nephews, and great-greats.
Special nephew John Stiteler who has lived with Aunt Helen for a few years.
Special nieces Christine & Lois for taking her to doctors and grocery shopping for 2 years or so.
Special cousins Barb & Tom McCrae of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Preceding her are her parents; sisters, Sally Jean Smith and Karen Joan Woodall; brothers-in-law, George E. Bell, Jim Smith, Duane Lucas, and Joe Kuratko; niece, Tammy Benthin Michaels; nephew, Tim Bishop; four infant brothers and one infant sister.
Her family will receive friends Thursday, January 15, 2026 beginning at 1:00 at Hohner Funeral Home, 1004 Arnold St., Three Rivers. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 at the funeral home with Rev. Brenda Deily officiating. She will be laid to rest in Bly Cemetery, Marcellus.
Donations in Helen’s memory may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
