Helen D Holcomb

Helen graduated from Desdemona High School and attended business school in Lubbock. Helen then settled in Odessa in the early 1950’s and began working for Sivall’s Tanks where she spent the next 35 years. In 1955 Helen was elected President of Odessa Desk and Derrick. In 1967 she married Harvey Holcomb and their union lasted 33 years until Harvey’s death in 2000. Soon after the two married they became active members of the American Legion. One of Helen’s greatest concerns was the welfare of all children, and through the American Legion Auxiliary she was instrumental in introducing a concept of correction and rehabilitation that was called a Teen Court. This innovative project was introduced in 1983 in Odessa and has now spread throughout the nation. Helen was an advocate of education and an avid supporter of the American Legion Girls State program. Helen was elected national president of the American Legion Auxiliary for the 1993-1994 year. This position enabled her to travel to all fifty states and numerous countries. On June 6, 1994, the fiftieth anniversary of DDay, it was Helen’s great honor to be seated with President Bill Clinton at Normandy for the commemorative ceremony.

Of all Helen’s accomplishments her greatest pride was in her son, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be remembered for her positive attitude, wonderful laugh, and love of family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Harvey Holcomb, step-daughter, Renee Brown, three sisters, and one brother.

Helen is survived by her son, Wayne Hallford and wife Sheila of Arlington, two brothers, Donald Ray Jackson of Lufkin, Bill Jackson, sister, Sybil Carroll,

two grandchildren, Ryan Hallford and wife Star, Lindy Berkley and husband Brad, four great-grandchildren, Emerald, A.J., Bauer, and Braden.

The Family will receive friends from 6-8pm Wednesday, September 11, 2013 at Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors.

A Funeral service will be 2pm Thursday, September 12, 2013 at Asbury United Methodist Church with Rev. Ron Colwell officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

In Lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to American Legion Girls State, P.O. Box 140407, Austin, Texas 78714.

Services are entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors.