Jeanne Mae Helman, age 74, of Raymore, Missouri, passed away on Friday, September 20, 2024. Born on January 7, 1950, in Bentonville, Arkansas, Jeanne lived a life defined by love, service, and devotion to her family and community. She is survived by her husband, Bud, brother Bobby, sisters Vicky and Yvonne, children Will, Doug, Ryan, Chris and Stephanie. And 14 grandchildren who were her pride and joy.
Jeanne was the glue that held her family together and her home was always the gathering place for those she loved. Whether it was a Sunday dinner, holiday celebration, football game or just an impromptu visit – Jeanne’s home was always a warm and welcoming refuge filled with joy and aromas of cookies or perhaps a chocolate sheet cake from the kitchen.
Jeanne earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing and two master’s degrees, which set the stage for a noteworthy career in the demanding field of open-heart surgery and nursing administration. She was a natural leader in both her profession and at home. Her dedication to nursing was matched only by her commitment to her family, and she balanced both roles with grace.
Jeanne also proudly served her country, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army. She was deployed during Desert Storm and Desert Shield, spending years away from her family in service to others. Her military career reflected her bravery, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to duty.
Though Jeanne had many professional and military accomplishments, family was always at the heart of everything she did. She was a devoted wife, a loving sister, an incredible mother, and the world's best Mimi. She was the heart of every celebration, and her home was the foundation where family gathered to create lifelong memories. We will forever cherish memories of her over the top, joy-filled Christmas mornings when Jeanne would go all out to make everyone’s day special.
Her passion for sports especially her beloved Arkansas Razorbacks - “Wooooo Pig Sooie!” - was well-known and she rarely missed watching Royals or Chiefs games with beloved dog Bubba nearby.
Growing up, Jeanne spent her childhood in Bentonville playing outside with friends, climbing on Mr. Fanning’s car trailers, and watching *Perry Mason* and *Dragnet* on the black-and-white TV with her parents and siblings. She carried those childhood memories with her throughout her life, sharing them with her own children and grandchildren. Jeanne also had a love for shopping and was fluent in Dillard's, Macy's, and TJ Maxx. She never met a clearance rack she didn’t like and was rarely seen without her beloved Diet Coke in hand.
Jeanne's life was one of selfless service, leadership, and love. She will forever be remembered as a hero to her family and a pillar of strength. She will be deeply missed by close family, but her impact, love, and warmth will live on in the hearts of anyone who was fortunate enough to be part of her orbit. Her legacy of dedication and love will live on through those she cherished.
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