The Life of HELEN FAITH GRAHAM HUGHES

Helen Faith (Graham) Hughes, 99 years and 9 months, passed away on Saturday, February 5, 2011, at Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center in Des Moines.

Helen was born in Perry, Iowa on May 5, 1911, to William and Grace (Kever) Graham. While Helen lived most of her life in the Des Moines area, she also lived in Texas and Kansas City for a short time. Helen graduated from Johnston High School in 1930.

In 1948, Helen married Ray Hughes. While she and Ray had no children of their own, Helen had three step-children. Helen worked as a state insurance auditor for Iowa and as an office manager for her husband’s plumbing business in Texas. In later years, she was a faithful volunteer at Trinity Center Nursing Home.

Helen lived at Luther Park Apartments since 1979, she was their first resident. Helen enjoyed playing cards and bingo, was a member of Red Hat Club and was involved in many social activities at Luther Park and her church. Helen was residing at Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center at the time of her death.

Her family best remembers Helen for her “fun loving ways” and the kindness she always showed others. She was the family member that always lifted us up and kept us laughing; her sunny disposition will be greatly missed.

Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ray; her parents; two step-sons and five siblings. Helen is survived by her brother, Rolland Graham; step-daughter; step-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, including her care-givers the last ten years, niece and nephew, Linda and Le Roy Graham. Helen also had many great nieces and nephews who will miss their “Aunt Helen.”

The family wishes to thank the many friends at Luther Park, Iowa Health Home Care Hospice, and the staff at Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center for all their support and loving care. We especially want to thank the “light side” staff and her “personal angel,” Kim.

Funeral services will be held 10 a.m., Tuesday, February 8, 2011, at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., with burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. The family will greet friends one hour prior to service time at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Luther Park Memorial Fund.