Helen Josephine Nelson

Helen Jolly Nelson, of Grand Prairie, Texas beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away on August 17, 2023. She was born on October 15, 1940, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Helen was a woman of great faith and was known for her devotion to her family and her community. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Helen was a loving and Godly woman who played a significant role in the lives of her family and friends. She was a mentor to many and always had a kind word and a listening ear. Helen's passion for cooking was well-known, and she was fondly referred to as 'The Pie Lady' for her delicious homemade pumpkin pies, which she generously shared with everyone she knew.

She is survived by her sons Michael Jolly (Teresa), Patrick Jolly (Jennifer), and Timothy Jolly (Cindy), daughter Ashley Nelson, and Marcy Walker Jolly. Helen also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren Michelle Harris (Brad), Christopher Jolly, Stephanie Kiernan (Brandon), Justin Jolly, Emberlynn Nelson, and Zahriya Nelson, as well as her great-grandchildren Addison Harris and Kinsley Harris. She was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Michael Nelson, her daughter Mary Ann Jolly, and her son David Jolly.

Helen's career as a midwife was truly remarkable and pioneering. She was a dedicated advocate for safe alternatives in childbirth and played a pivotal role in the advancement of midwifery in Texas and the United States. Helen served as a board member of the National Association of Parents and Professionals for the Safe Alternatives in Childbirth (NAPSAC) and was a founding member of the Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA). She also served as a state officer for La Leche League and was a founding member of both the Association of Texas Midwives (ATM) and the North Texas Midwives (NTM). Helen's commitment to her profession led her to continuously serve in various positions on the Texas Department of State Health Services Midwifery Board. Throughout her career, she attended over 3,000 births, leaving a lasting impact on countless families.

In 1981, Helen opened Family Birth Services, the first free-standing birth center in Texas. Her vision was to create a safe and nurturing environment for women to give birth. Family Birth Services has continued to fulfill Helen's original intent for 35 years, providing exceptional care and support to expectant mothers. Under the leadership of midwives Helen trained, Family Birth Services continues today to operate as a home birth service. Helen's dedication to midwifery education was also evident as she founded the North Texas School of Midwifery at Family Birth Services, training more than 50 midwives through traditional apprenticeships. Her legacy lives on through the midwives she trained, who continue to provide compassionate care to families.

Helen was a woman of faith, and she worshipped at Diversity Church in Arlington, Texas. Her spirituality was an integral part of her life and guided her actions and interactions with others.

In her leisure time, Helen enjoyed playing bridge and participated in numerous tournaments, achieving the highest rankings. Her passion for the game brought her joy and allowed her to connect with others who shared her love for bridge.

Helen Nelson's legacy as a loving mother, dedicated midwife, and caring friend will forever be cherished. She touched the lives of many and will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. May she rest in peace.