Helen Rathbone

Clyde, Helen Surrett Rathbone, age 74, of the Crabtree Community, passed away on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at her residence. She was a native and lifelong resident of Haywood County and the daughter of the late Shelton and Myrtle Gibson Surrett. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Ronnie Dewayne Rathbone, and one brother, Charles Surrett. Helen was a long-time active member of Crabtree Baptist Church and will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and nanny to her family, friends, and neighbors and for helping anyone in need. Helen was also a great cook and enjoyed working in her garden. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Henry Rathbone; three daughters, Margaret Ruff and her husband, Dennis, Brenda Evans and her husband, Junior, and Joretta Parris and her husband, Charlie; one son, Robert Rathbone and his wife, Janet, all of the Crabtree Community; eight grandchildren; and twelve great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 7, 2011 at Crabtree Baptist Church with Reverend Matt Ledbetter and Reverend Mark Caldwell officiating. Burial will follow at Crabtree Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at the church and at other times, at the residence. Memorials may be made to CarePartners Hospice, P.O. Box 25338, Asheville, NC 28813. Wells Funeral Homes & Cremation Services of Waynesville is in charge of arrangements.

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