Helen F. Andrews

Helen F. Andrews, Devoted Educator and Matriarch of a Greek-American Legacy, Dies at 100

Helen Frances (Vletas) Andrews, whose beautiful smile could light up the whole room, and whose steadfast devotion to family, faith, and education left an indelible mark on all those she met, died peacefully on October 1, 2025. She was 100.

Born on December 8, 1924, in Abilene, Texas to Greek immigrant parents, George Dimitris and Irene (Thomas) Vletas, Mrs. Andrews was raised in a vibrant enclave of her Greek relatives of the community, steeped in the values of faith, tradition, hard work, and hospitality. Her father founded the Palace of Sweets, a cherished local confectionery and soda fountain, where Helen spent her youth serving hand-dipped chocolates with a warmth that drew loyal customers-and later, soldiers stationed at Camp Barkley during World War II. Over time the business evolved into what is today Candies By Vletas.

A graduate of Hardin Simmons University, she began her teaching career in Albany, Texas, specializing in shorthand and typing. At a cousin's wedding in Galveston, she met Nicholas J. Andrews, a returning WWII GI also of Greek descent. They married in 1946, beginning a partnership that spanned nearly six decades, marked by shared passions for God, family, storytelling, and hospitality.

The couple settled in Hillsboro, where Mr. Andrews co-owned Andrews Café, a fixture in the town for more than half a century. Mrs. Andrews resumed her career at Hillsboro High School, later continuing to teach in Abilene after the family relocated in 1971 when Mr. Andrews purchased The Dixie Pig Restaurant. Altogether, she taught for more than 40 years, becoming a model of quiet resilience and generosity.

In retirement, the pair traveled to Greece, reconnecting with relatives and celebrating their ancestral roots. They knew no strangers. Many festive times were shared with others gathered around their table filled with homemade Greek cuisine and pastries. Following Mr. Andrews' death in 2004 at age 90, Mrs. Andrews remained active in her church community-Heavenly Rest Episcopal-and in the local YMCA's daily water aerobics class, where she enjoyed the company of new friends and events. Her latter years were blessed with additions to her family including eight great grandchildren. In December 2024, she was honored by family and friends at a grand 100th birthday celebration.

She always had time for you and had a way of making you feel seen. One felt welcomed, at home, while that beautiful smile of hers would capture your heart. Her simple belief was that you received what you gave, God is love, and that without love, you had nothing.

Mrs. Andrews is survived by her children, Cannell Dillard (Alex) of Little Rock, AR, and George N. Andrews of Cleveland, OH. Granddaughters Alexandra Dillard Lucie (Craig), Adrienne & Liam of Atlanta, GA; Annemarie Dillard Jazic (Ante), Nicholas, Luka & Mila of Little Rock, AR; and Michelle Dillard Hobbs (David), Louise, Massie & Carolina of Coral Gables, FL. And many dear cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and Chrystene Downs and Geneva Paige in Abilene. Her legacy lives on in their laughter, love, traditions, beauty, and the shared sense of belonging she so generously cultivated.

Visitation will be held at Hamil Family Funeral Home on October 7 from 4-6:00 pm. A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 am, October 8, at Heavenly Rest Episcopal Church Abilene, with interment at Cedar Hill Cemetery immediately following. A reception at Gerhart Hall at Heavenly Rest will follow the burial.

The family asks that tributes in her memory be made to the Church of the Heavenly Rest Episcopal Abilene Music Fund or to an organization you support that fosters peace, healing, inclusion, or love.