Helen McDowell

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Helen Jeniola McDowell, 74 of Baxter Springs, KS passed from this life on Monday, May 16, 2016 at her home in Baxter Springs.

Helen was born on June 13, 1941 in Treece, KS to the union of Walter B. and Helen (Perry) Trimble. Helen graduated from Columbus County High School with the class of 1959. After high school she attended Franklin Tech and graduated as an LPN. She worked for the former St. John’s Hospital in Joplin, Mo for many years. She was united in marriage to James Frank McDowell on April 26, 1959 in Miami, OK.

Helen enjoyed painting and collecting ceramic houses. She especially enjoyed the time she spent with her family and friends.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Randy Trimble.

Helen is survived by her husband of 56 years, James Frank McDowell of the home; two sons, Tim McDowell of Baxter Springs, KS, and James R. McDowell and wife Kelly of Viola, KS; one brother, Rick Trimble of Tulsa, OK; three sisters, Bill Cox of Joplin, MO, Linda Burch of Columbus, KS, and Kay Smith of Galena, KS; four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Memorial graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, May 20, 2016 at Greenlawn Cemetery, rural Columbus, KS. Family will receive friends from Noon until 1:00 p.m., Friday at Derfelt’s Baxter Chapel. Pastor Larry Perry will officiate. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.