Helen Irene (Hazen) Garrels, age 101, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024, at Parkview Retirement Community in Maryville, TN. Born on July 26, 1923, in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, she was the daughter of the late Zellah Mae (Anderson) Hazen and James (Harry) Hazen. Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Irwin Harold Garrels; her brothers, John Hervey Hazen and Dale Harry Hazen; and her sister, Louise (Hazen) Roach.
She is survived by her son, James Irwin Garrels, and his wife, Joan Brooks; her daughter, Susan Irene (Garrels) Larsen, and her husband, Mark; and her treasured granddaughter, Shaina Walker, and her husband, Ian. Helen will also be deeply missed by numerous extended family members, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
A graduate of Mount Pleasant High School, Helen went on to become the owner of the Danville and New London Variety stores. She had a love for collecting antiques, creating artificial bouquets, and crafting. After moving to Tennessee, Helen found joy in spending time with her daughter and granddaughter, further enriching her life with love and laughter.
Helen’s extraordinary life was featured in a documentary titled Crossroads: The Ballad of Helen and Ernie, which highlighted her memories in Iowa and the beautiful partnership she shared with her husband. Known for her warm smile, sense of humor, and love for making others laugh, Helen had a unique gift for brightening people’s lives with her sweet personality.
The legacy Helen leaves behind is one of kindness, joy, and a deep love for her family and community. Services for Mrs. Garrels will be at 11:00 am, Friday, October 18, 2024, at Elliott Chapel, New London, with Rev. David Mixon officiating. Burial will follow at Long Creek Cemetery, rural Danville, with a luncheon immediately after at Long Creek Church. The family will greet friends at the chapel beginning at 10:00 until the time of the service.
Her family will be hosting a memorial service in Tennessee at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen’s memory to The Michael J. Fox Foundation or The Macular Degeneration Association. Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.