Helen Malpass Edwards

Helen M. Edwards, 86, of River Bend, passed away December 7, 2018 at home. She is survived by three children: Barbara Edwards of the home, Andrew Edwards (Michael) of Seattle, Washington, and Carol Edwards Carawon (Bob) of Cary, NC. Also surviving are four grandchildren: John Henry, Watson (Sarah), Harris, and Payton Carawon of Cary.

Helen loved God and her church family, who were supportive throughout her life. She was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church in New Bern for over 60 years. She sang in the adult choir and the JOY choir and taught Sunday School until her health declined. She enjoyed visits from her Sunday School girls and their families after she was no longer able to go to church.

Helen started working at the age of 16 at La Parisiene in New Bern. She went on to have a successful business career at Barbour Boat Works, New Bern Shipyard, retiring from Craven County Hospital, even learning a little about computers and spread sheets before retirement. After retirement she was able to work part-time at Tabernacle in the church office.

As successful and long as her career was, her cherished moments were seeing her children grow, learn, and become adults themselves. Helen was very proud of her children and grandchildren for overcoming obstacles and fulfilling their dreams, and was always excited to hear of what was coming next in their lives.

Reading and travel were her favorite activities outside of work and family. She never was without a book to read, had several books lined up to read next, and was constantly searching for a bookmark. She traveled all over the US and parts of Europe, but her best vacations ever were with family in Disney World. After she was no longer able to walk very far, she enjoyed Disney World from her wheelchair, just happy to take in the sights and sounds.

Helen was always interested in justice and caring for people who needed a helping hand. For the past couple of years, though she was not able to physically support the causes she believed in, she was usually ready to debate and educate about issues of justice and love for all people when given the opportunity.

Her children would like to thank those from both the East and West Coast for their words of love. A special thank you is given to Louis and Joyce Frazier who are providing a temporary home after Helen and Barbara’s home was flooded. They have been a tremendous source of emotional and practical care, ready to pitch in with dog sitting duties, to make a meal when needed, and offer listening ears and words of comfort and encouragement through these last few difficult months.