Helen Cartee (née Dodsworth), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away peacefully at home in Abilene, Texas, on September 23, 2026, after a long illness. Born on June 5, 1934, in Bowie, Texas, Helen was the cherished daughter of Clarence J. Dodsworth and Irma Glover Dodsworth.

Helen's early years were marked by a passion for learning and a dedication to her studies. She graduated from Bowie High School and pursued higher education at North Texas State University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Education. Her commitment to education led her to a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher, where she shaped young minds across several school districts for 27 years. Following her retirement from teaching, Helen's love for history and culture found a new expression as she worked with Abilene antique dealers, bringing stories from the past to life for her community.

In the summer of 1955, fate brought Helen to the Old Faithful General Store in Yellowstone Park, where she met Dale Cartee, a recent University of Idaho graduate. Their romance blossomed as they spent the summer together, and after rekindling their relationship in Houston later that year, they were married on June 16, 1956, in Bowie, Texas. Helen and Dale shared seventy beautiful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Helen's life was enriched by her family, whom she adored. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dale Cartee; her daughter, Cheryl Wolters; her son, Brian Cartee; and her sister, Dorothy Boddeker. She took immense pride in her four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them.

A woman of many talents, Helen was a skilled bridge player and participated in several clubs, where she formed lasting friendships. She was a dedicated member of the Abilene Women's Club, P.E.O., and the Lamplighter Sunday School Class, contributing her time and energy to causes she believed in.

Helen is predeceased by her parents, Clarence and Irma Dodsworth, and her beloved sisters, Margie Keeter and Carol Stedman. Her legacy of kindness, intelligence, and strength will be carried on by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 from 5:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd.  A memorial service to celebrate Helen's life will be held on October 1, 2026, at 11:00a.m. at Aldersgate Methodist Church, located at 1741 Sayles Blvd., Abilene, Texas. Burial will follow at the Texas State Veteran Cemetery at 1:00p.m.

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice.

The Cartee family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Helen's caregivers from Home Instead and West Texas Hospice for their exceptional kindness and skill during her final days. Helen's memory will forever remain a guiding light in the hearts of those she touched throughout her remarkable life.