Helen P. Dobbins

Lucy Helen Payne Dobbins, age 97, passed in peace on Saturday, June 29th after spending a full day with family. A celebration of her life with be held at Archdale First Church of God on Tuesday, July 2nd, at 11 am.

Helen was born on April 20, 1922 to Fred and Cora Shields Payne and spent her childhood helping on her father’s tobacco farm while also caring for her younger brothers and sisters. On November 6, 1949 she married the love of her life, Edwin H. Dobbins. Ed and Helen both had a strong Christian faith and were active members of First Church for over 50 years. They enjoyed teaching in Sunday School class and hosting the youth group at their mountain property near Hillsville, Virginia. Helen would share her faith in Jesus to anyone and everyone who listened.

On any Saturday morning, Helen could be found in her beauty parlor shop at her home doing hair for sisters, friends and family. She was even known from time to time to try out new styles on any willing granddaughter.

Whether in the mountains, at the beach, or at home, Helen left her mark by planting immaculate flower beds full of her favorites, including impatiens and zinnias. She could take camellia and magnolia blossoms and quickly create a beautiful table centerpiece.

Left to keep her memory in their hearts are her sons, Gary Dobbins and his wife Angela, Craig Dobbins and his wife Carol, her daughter LuElla Byrd, grandchildren, Tracy McCurry and husband Mark, Andrea Butler and husband Thomas, Brad Dobbins and wife Rebekah, Sarah Dobbins and husband Rick, Erica Byrd, Lauren Smith and husband Matt, Jonathan Byrd, and James Dobbins, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.

Helen’s family would like to express their thanks to the staff at Piedmont Crossing, Thomasville, and to Hospice of the Piedmont for the care given these last years. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of the Piedmont, High Point, NC, in Helen’s name or sign up to be a Hospice of the Piedmont Volunteer.