Marie Hermine Oelkers Helsley Ward

Marie Hermine Helsley Ward (nee Oelkers), aged 84 passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024, in her hometown of New Braunfels, TX. Born on February 21, 1940 to Edgar Oelkers, Sr. and Ella Mittendorf Oelkers, Marie grew up on the family farm in New Braunfels, TX.

Marie dedicated 36 years to educating young minds, beginning her career in Leander ISD and South San Antonio ISD. In 1968 she joined Northside ISD and taught at Pat Neff, Anson Jones, and Sul Ross middle schools. Initially teaching home economics, she later transitioned to teaching 7th grade life science in the late 1970's, impacting countless students with her passion and knowledge.

A graduate of New Braunfels High School, Marie furthered her education at the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Home Economics in 1962. Additionally, Marie earned a master's degree in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 1982. Her love for learning continued throughout her life as she was an avid reader and collector of news articles spanning current events, history and nature.

Marie's warm, friendly, and compassionate nature made her a beloved figure not only in her professional role, but also within her community. In recent years she was a member of the New Braunfels Conservation Society and served as a docent at the Lindheimer Home. In addition to her passion for historic preservation, Marie was an advocate for the environment and was a member of the Native Plant Society of Texas.

Marie is survived by her daughter, Sharon Williams and her husband Steve of Albuquerque, NM; son, Richard Helsley, Jr. and his wife Karen of New Braunfels, TX; grandchildren, Regan Helsley, Savannah Helsley, Elaina Williams Ball and Johnny Williams; brother, Edgar Oelkers, Jr. and his wife Dorothy; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar, Sr. and Ella Oelkers, and her husband, JC Ward.

A memorial service will be held at Zoeller Funeral Home, 615 Landa St., New Braunfels, TX 78130, on September 14, 2024, at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to a charity of choice that supports historical or environmental conservation efforts.

Zoeller Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Marie's legacy of kindness, education, and conservation will live on through the many lives she touched.