Helen Ruth Howard Smyth, 93, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Helen was born on March 5, 1933, in Hico, Texas, to Robert Luther Howard and Sera Elizabeth Josephine Price Howard. In 1935, her family moved to Winters, Texas, where she was raised and attended school. She graduated from Winters High School in 1951, where she distinguished herself as a well-loved and active student. During her school years, she earned numerous honors, including Homecoming Queen, Football Sweetheart, Class Favorite, and Band Sweetheart. She was also a twirler in the school band.

During her youth in Winters, Helen began working at The Fashion Shop while still in school. After graduation, she continued building her early career by working for Dr. Barron and later for Dr. Henry McCreight. She eventually relocated to Abilene, where she worked at Paul’s Shoes before joining the office of Dr. George Thurman, where she remained until retirement.

On August 19, 1966, Helen married the love of her life, Glenn H. Smyth. Together they shared a life filled with faith, love, and adventure. They traveled the world together and created countless cherished memories.

Helen’s life in Abilene was marked by deep faith and dedicated community involvement. She was a founding member of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church. She was also actively engaged in the Abilene community, generously giving her time to numerous charitable organizations. Among her many contributions, she helped establish the Cattle Baron’s Ball benefiting the American Cancer Society and volunteered for many years with Dancing with the Stars, which supported the Abilene Boys Ranch. She was also a member of the Ladies Carousel Club.

Helen treasured her relationship with God, her family, and her many lifelong friendships. She will be remembered for her gracious spirit, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Glenn H. Smyth; her brothers, Robert Howard, Earl Howard, Billy Ray Howard, Shirley Howard; and her sisters, Dorothy Margaret Clift and Mary Kathryn Ballew.

Helen is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Visitation will be held Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd., Abilene.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, August 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Pioneer Drive Baptist Church in Abilene, officiated by her nephew, Chad Mitchell and Jeff Reid. Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Lakeview Cemetery in Winters, Texas.

The family would like to thank Hendrick Hospice and Dr Neelima Ryali for her many years of care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mission Abilene, P.O. Box 7550, Abilene, TX 79608.